Portuguese authorities intercepted 6.5 tons of cocaine intended to be transported to Europe.

Portuguese police announced that they seized a semi-sunken sea vessel carrying 6.5 tons of cocaine destined for Europe. Officials revealed that the operation took place on Tuesday.

Authorities stated that the vessel was intercepted in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 500 nautical miles south of the Azores Islands, and that five crew members were detained. The operation involved the Portuguese Air Force and Navy, alongside the Spanish Civil Guard. Additionally, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and British officials provided support. Portuguese police mentioned that the apprehended suspects were linked to an international crime organization based in South America, but did not disclose further details about the origin of the organization. European officials occasionally seize homemade semi-sunken sea vessels coming from South America carrying drugs. These vessels navigate close to the water’s surface to avoid detection but do not have full capacity to travel entirely underwater.