The National Drug Control Agency (DNCD) revealed a relentless 12-hour pursuit took place across the high seas and culminated in the dramatic capture of a “Go Fast” vessel carrying over 1.5 tons of cocaine, leading to the arrest of three Dominicans and one Colombian national, as reported in Diario Libre. The bust, a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking, unfolded off the remote southwestern coast of the Dominican Republic.
As reported, the operation was set in motion when intelligence units detected a high-speed “Go Fast” boat, approximately 35 feet long and powered by two 250-horsepower outboard engines, heading towards Dominican territory. The vessel, lacking any visible identification, was observed maintaining a steady course near Cabo Falso, a notoriously remote and rugged point off the western coast of the Pedernales province.
As reported, with individuals spotted on board, the DNCD command center immediately activated a joint interdiction operation. The Dominican Navy, Air Force, and ground tactical units mobilized, all under the close coordination of the Public Ministry (Attorney General Office).
The operation lasted for more than half a day. Helicopters and naval units maintained an unbroken pursuit. The joint forces executed sophisticated zone denial and maritime closure tactics, effectively cornering the suspected drug runners. The high-stakes chase covered considerable nautical miles, showcasing the seamless cooperation between the various agencies.
The pursuit concluded several nautical miles west of Cabo Falso, where authorities finally intercepted the high-speed craft. A thorough search of the vessel revealed 53 large bales, each wrapped in black plastic and containing multiple packages of a white powdery substance.
In total, authorities recovered 1,536 packages of the suspected narcotic. The substance has since been sent to the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF) for comprehensive analysis of its composition and weight, though it is strongly believed to be cocaine.
Beyond the illicit cargo, investigators also seized a mobile phone, a GPS device, two communication radio batteries, a portable cooler filled with water and energy drinks, 13 fuel tanks, and a backpack containing clothing and personal belongings.
The four individuals apprehended in connection with the seizure are now in custody, facing charges related to international drug trafficking. This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by Dominican authorities to combat the flow of illegal narcotics through its territorial waters.
In its coverage of the chase, CBS News reported that Carlos Devers, spokesperson for the anti-drug agency said that it is one of the Caribbean country’s biggest seizures in history.
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Diario Libre
CBS
30 July 2025