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St. Lucie County, FL - Florida law enforcement intercepted a major human and drug smuggling operation off the coast of Fort Pierce, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of 168 kilograms of cocaine.
The investigation began on August 29th after authorities received intelligence that a group of men had rented an Airbnb in Fort Pierce and were allegedly planning to travel to the Bahamas to smuggle drugs and humans into the United States, according to the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
On the morning of August 30, around 5:30 a.m., authorities observed two vessels departing the Fort Pierce Inlet.
Later in the day, a third boat was identified, with all three vessels reportedly returning from the Bahamas.
Officials said the group allegedly used counter-surveillance teams to monitor law enforcement activity in the area.
A multi-agency law enforcement team, including U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, intercepted the boats as they approached the inlet.
Two vessels, a 42-foot Contender and a 36-foot Grady White, complied with authorities and stopped.
The third boat, a 33–35-foot Intermarine, attempted to flee but was disabled by Customs and Border Protection Air Marine Operations.
Authorities took into custody 30 Chinese nationals, including two juveniles, believed to be undocumented, as well as eight Bahamian men.
Five of the Bahamians were allegedly involved on the vessels, while three were allegedly conducting counter-surveillance on land.
All individuals were transferred to federal authorities, and the Chinese nationals are expected to be repatriated.
Sheriff Richard Del Toro emphasized the importance of cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies in addressing smuggling operations.