A suspected drug smuggler was detained off the coast of California after federal agents uncovered cocaine worth $6.4 million aboard an oil tanker allegedly linked to a Mexican drug cartel. Ceasar Tubay Gelacio Jr., a 43-year-old from the Philippines, faces charges of importing a controlled substance, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California announced.
Joint Operation Uncovers Major Cocaine Shipment
Officials disclosed that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Coast Guard conducted a joint operation on Thursday aboard the Motor Tanker Aquatravesia, stationed at the Port of Los Angeles. A Coast Guard narcotics detection dog alerted the agents to suspicious cargo, leading investigators to confirm the presence of 500 pounds of cocaine, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
“This operation highlights Homeland Security Investigations’ unwavering commitment to combating transnational crime and safeguarding the United States from illicit narcotics,” stated HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang.
He affirmed HSI’s swift intervention and investigative prowess, which played a key role in identifying and seizing the cocaine intended for U.S. communities. Wang highlighted their dedication to preventing exploitation of ports and transportation systems by criminal organizations.
Coordinated Efforts Dismantle Smuggling Operation
Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach Sector Commander Capt. Stacey Crecy emphasized the coordinated efforts of DHS agencies in dismantling this smuggling operation as a clear achievement. Crecy emphasized the importance of prompt detainment of suspects and the removal of contraband from vessels to maintain the integrity of maritime transportation and commerce.
An affidavit filed in the case outlined the voyage of the Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged Aquatravesia. Originating from Ecuador, the vessel was reportedly carrying a large shipment of narcotics intended for a Mexican cartel. Crew members allegedly found packages believed to contain drugs hidden in the ship’s garbage room.
The ship’s captain interrogated the crew, allegedly discovering that the drugs belonged to Gelacio, leading to the relocation of the drugs. The captain claimed cartel members planned to retrieve the narcotics approximately 80 nautical miles offshore during May 14’s evening and the next morning, while the vessel was in Mexican waters.
Authorities Direct Vessel To Los Angeles
Reports suggested that if the drugs were not delivered, additional boats might intercept the vessel and recover the contraband within Mexican waters. Prosecutors state the captain received radio communications from cartel members before any boarding or seizing attempts.
U.S. authorities instructed the Aquatravesia to proceed to the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, enabling law enforcement to board the vessel. Authorities allege Gelacio obtained the contraband in Ecuador, intending to distribute it while the ship traveled near Mexico.
Legal Consequences and Additional Arrests
If Gelacio is convicted, he faces a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment. DHS confirmed that two other individuals were taken into custody related to the operation.
Leave a Reply