In what seems like a scene straight out of a high-octane action movie, Costa Rica’s Coast Guard, in a thrilling collaboration with US authorities, pulled off a maritime coup. The star of this oceanic drama? A boat named “Lexus,” loaded not with luxury but with a whopping 1.7 tons of marijuana and a side of 36 kilos of cocaine. This operation, a blend of precision and adrenaline, unfolded in the South Pacific, just 24 kilometers off Cape Matapalo.
The Lexus Chase: A 12-Hour Maritime Marathon
Imagine a boat chase that lasts longer than your last binge-watch session. The 38-foot “Lexus,” flaunting two beefy 250Hp outboard engines, was more loaded than a Thanksgiving turkey. The chase, starting at 1:36 p.m., spanned a nail-biting 12 hours. It’s the kind of pursuit that would have TV viewers on the edge of their seats, popcorn forgotten.
A Potent Cargo: More Than Just Seaweed
The “Lexus” wasn’t cruising the ocean blue just for the scenic views. Its cargo? Approximately 1,724 kilos of marijuana and 36 kilos of cocaine. That’s enough to make even the most seasoned drug buster’s eyes widen. In Costa Rica, where recreational marijuana use is a no-go and only medicinal use gets the green light, this haul was a big fish in the war against drugs.
The Captains of Contraband
Steering this illicit ship were two Nicaraguan nationals: a 44-year-old captain named Wilson and his 27-year-old sailing sidekick, Julias. Both were found with irregular status in Costa Rica, hailing from the waters of Laguna Perla. It’s like they were trying to be the Walter Whites of the sea, but ended up more like Gilligan and the Skipper on a very bad day.
A High-Speed Hunt on the High Seas
The chase began when the US Maritime Patrol Air Patrol (MPA) tipped off Costa Rican authorities. What ensued was a high-speed hunt on the high seas, culminating in the capture of “Lexus” and its crew. This operation showcased the kind of international teamwork that would make the Avengers proud.
Costa Rica’s Drug War: A Persistent Battle
This isn’t Costa Rica’s first rodeo on the drug-busting front. Just two weeks prior, the Coast Guard snagged almost two tons of cocaine. With 24.7 tons of cocaine seized in 2022, it’s clear Costa Rica isn’t just about rainforests and beaches; it’s also a front-line warrior in the global fight against narcotics.
The Spoils of the Sea
The “Lexus” was a veritable floating drug store, with its cargo of drugs and an additional 17 tin cans containing about 500 liters of fuel – because when you’re running an illegal operation at sea, you can never have too much gas.
The Aftermath: Justice Takes the Helm
Now in the hands of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Wilson and Julias are facing a stormy future. Their capture and the seizure of their illicit cargo underscore Costa Rica’s unwavering commitment to maritime security and the global crusade against drug trafficking.
In an operation that combined the thrill of a high-seas chase with the gravity of international law enforcement, Costa Rica and US authorities demonstrated that when it comes to combating drug trafficking, they’re all in. The seizure of the “Lexus” and its considerable stash of narcotics is a testament to the vigilance and cooperation needed to keep the tides of crime at bay. It’s a stark reminder that beneath the serene beauty of the ocean’s surface, there’s a constant battle being waged against the dark undercurrents of the drug trade.
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