| Release #: M10-08 |
| Release date: October 23, 2003 |
| Contact: Petty Officer Crystal Norman |
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Jacksonville CG unit aids in seizing more than 138,000 lbs of cocaine in FY 03 ** Interviews and video available** |
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JACKSONVILLE, Fla., -- The Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron based in Jacksonville was involved in seizing more than 57,000 pounds of cocaine last year, resulting in more than 40 percent of the overall cocaine seized by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard’s use of armed helicopters working in tandem with high-speed, over-the-horizon boats had continued success in stopping drug smuggling go-fast vessels. Typically, about 80 percent of the cocaine coming into the country by way of maritime routes each year is transported on go-fast vessels. Since September 11, 2001 the war on drugs has taken on new importance, as the sale of drugs has been shown to be a major funding source employed by many terrorist organizations. HITRON will continue to be at the forefront of America's war on drugs and with the new Homeland Security mission, will also fight the war on terrorism by protecting American shores. Coast Guard-wide 136,865 pounds of cocaine was seized and 283 drug smugglers were arrested in fiscal year 2003, which ended on September 30. The seizures kept more than $4 billion of cocaine off America’s streets, and were second only to the record level of 138,393 pounds of cocaine seized in fiscal year 2001. "Every day, the U.S. Coast Guard is on the front lines as part of a layered homeland security strategy to protect Americans from all threats," said Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge. "Each shipment of illicit drugs interdicted by the Coast Guard saves lives at home and denies terrorists a potential source of funding." **Editors Note: Media are invited to interview HITRON pilots invovled in the most recent drug siezures in FY 03 at Cecil Field Friday at 10:30 a.m. Video of recent cocaine seizures is also available. -uscg- The U.S. Coast Guard is a military, maritime, multi-mission service within the |
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