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Illegal Drug Smugglers Get Creative: From Fishing Boats to Full-Scale Submarines
The world of illegal drug trafficking is constantly evolving, with new methods and technologies being used to transport drugs into the United States. While cocaine and weed have traditionally been smuggled in through Central and South America, the means of transportation have become more sophisticated over the years.
At first, fishing boats were the go-to method for drug cartels. Then came “go-fasts,” speedboats equipped with multiple engines. But as these methods became more easily detected, cartels turned to semi-submersible “narco subs.” And now, they are taking it a step further with full-scale submarines.
In 2010, authorities in Ecuador made a shocking discovery: a fully functional submarine designed specifically for drug smuggling. According to Jay Bergman, the Andean regional director for the US Drug Enforcement Administration, it was the first of its kind ever found. The vessel was 33 meters long, had a crew of five or six, and was equipped with advanced features like twin-screw diesel-electric propulsion, periscopes, and even air conditioning. It was estimated that the sub could carry up to 10 tons of cocaine.
The submarine was found at a secret “shipyard” facility on a jungle river in Ecuador, near the Colombian border. The facility had accommodations for over 50 people, but only one person was arrested by Ecuadoran soldiers and police, who were acting on intelligence provided by the DEA.
Building these complex vessels comes at a high cost, with cartels reportedly spending millions of dollars and recruiting skilled engineers, often ex-military, to construct them. However, the lengthy construction time and hefty price tag are still a drawback. This is why, despite the growing use of full-scale submarines, the semi-submersible remains the preferred method of transportation. These vessels are cheaper and can be easily abandoned or sunk if caught.
The first generation of narco subs, used since the late 1990s, is essentially a semi-submersible boat with a cap on top. These vessels are fitted with ordinary marine engines and are able to avoid radar detection because only a small part of the boat’s structure is visible above the surface. The only exposed parts are air intakes and a periscope with simple cameras for navigation. As a result, aerial surveillance is the main way to detect them.
According to DEA reports, Colombian drug cartels have at least 40 of these custom-built narco subs, while Mexican cartels have even more. Made of fiberglass and powered by a 300 to 350-horsepower diesel engine, these vessels are manned by a crew of three or four and can transport thousands of pounds of drugs. It is estimated that the average 60-foot (18-meter) sub can carry several tons of cocaine.
Despite the use of advanced technology, the fact remains that these drug smugglers are still operating under the radar, evading authorities and bringing illegal drugs into the country. It’s a constant game of cat and mouse, with the cartels always finding new ways to stay ahead of the law.
