Two Bahamian nationals are facing federal charges after a significant drug bust at sea. The defendants, identified as Alfred Lynton Laing and Runo Traveeno Laing, were caught attempting to smuggle approximately 188 kilograms of cocaine into the United States aboard a vessel, as revealed in a criminal complaint.
Last Sunday, Air and Marine Operations (AMO) agents from the Fort Lauderdale and Miami Marine Units received the alert from the Air and Marine Operations Center (AMOC) about a suspicious craft heading towards Port Everglades Inlet. Showing the efficiency of inter-agency cooperation, they took to the waters with Coastal Interceptor Vessels (CIV), and on cue, intercepted the Contender Center Console boat carrying the two men about four nautical miles from Hillsboro Inlet.
The subsequent search of the vessel unearthed the trove of drugs, with the cocaine found wrapped in individual bricks, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Florida. “This significant seizure and the arrest of the individuals allegedly involved are a testament to the dedication of AMO and our law enforcement partners," U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe declared in the announcement.
The Laings are scheduled for arraignment on January 21. It's a stark reminder that despite our best efforts, the war on drugs wields a long shadow over our communities. However, it's also a relief to know that agencies like AMO are out there, keeping a vigilant watch over our borders. As the authorities often remind us in their press releases, the accused, to include Mr. Alfred and Mr. Runo Laing, are entitled to a presumption of innocence until proven otherwise beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nardia Haye is slated to prosecute the case, with input from both AMO and DEA investigators. Those seeking further details can find the related court documents on the Southern District of Florida's District Court website or explore the docket entries via the PACER system under case number 25-cr-6004.
