Archive image: U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) UH-60 Black Hawk aircrews and agents from the Tucson Sector Border Patrol Special Operations Detachment BORSTAR/BORTAC complete Fast Rope currency and proficiency training, followed by an operational patrol mission Southwest of Tucson, March 10, 2025.
U.S. Customs and Border photo by Jerry Glaser.
AGUADILLA, Puerto Rico — U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (CBP AMO) crews interdicted a vessel with 3 smugglers from the Dominican Republic and seizing 1,155 pounds (524 kilograms) of cocaine south of Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. Tuesday, June 24, 2025.
This successful interdiction highlights the critical role maritime domain awareness plays in securing our nation’s borders,” said Creighton Skeen, Deputy Director of Air and Marine Operations in the Caribbean. “Our teams are committed to protecting the homeland by stopping drug trafficking before they reach United States shores.”
On the evening of June 2, a Caribbean Air and Marine Operations asset and a Multi-Role Enforcement Aircraft (MEA) detected a 30′ yola-type vessel with two outboard engines, carrying approximately three people on board, navigating north about 22 miles south of Cabo Rojo.
The aircrew of the MEA contacted the AMO Michel O. Maceda Marine Unit deploying a Coastal Interceptor vessel, supported by a CBP AMO UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, successfully intercepting the vessel near midnight.
Inside the vessel agents found a total of three smugglers from the Dominican Republic without proper documentation to enter or remain in the United States legally, 22 bales of contraband, and one AR-15 type rifle.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) assumed custody of the three smugglers and the rifle, while the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) assumed custody of narcotics.
For more Hlcopters Magazine breaking news, stories, images and videos visit hlcopters.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
