• U.S. Coast Guard seizes over 100,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean since August.
• 86 individuals have been arrested in connection with drug trafficking.
• The operation is part of a larger strategy to combat narco-terrorism from Central and South America.
• Seizures have averaged nearly a ton daily during the operation.
• Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak praises the achievement, indicating further goals for drug interdiction.

The U.S. Coast Guard has reported seizing more than 100,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean as part of Operation Pacific Viper, initiated in early August. This operation involves significant coordination with international partners and has resulted in the apprehension of 86 suspected narco-traffickers through 34 interdictions. The Coast Guard averages approximately 1,600 pounds of cocaine seized daily during this period, a noteworthy accomplishment in their ongoing efforts against drug trafficking, according to ABC News, CBS News, and SFGATE.

Operation Pacific Viper has been described as one of the Coast Guard's largest maritime drug busts, illustrating a robust deployment of resources including ships, aircraft, and tactical teams targeting drug routes from Central and South America. Rear Adm. Jeffrey Novak emphasized the operation's focus to "block narcotics from reaching U.S. shores" and noted that the agency plans to exceed the current seizure milestone. This commitment is reinforced by the Coast Guard's extensive operational capabilities, supported by a fleet of over 220 cutters and 1,300 boats for drug interdiction missions, according to ABC News, CBS News, and SFGATE.

As part of their operational strategy, the Coast Guard has also utilized other aggressive measures, including drone strikes on suspected drug trafficking boats. Recently, President Trump announced military actions against vessels believed to be involved in drug smuggling, which have resulted in casualties. This military stance has sparked discussions regarding the legality and ethical implications of such operations under international law, as highlighted by various legal experts, according to ABC News and SFGATE.