Federal investigators have seized more than $80.5 million worth of cocaine and marijuana from two go-fast vessels in a sprawling operation targeting a Colombia-based drug trafficking organization. The seizures, part of what officials are calling Operation Iron Current, were led by Homeland Security Investigations in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, working alongside domestic and international law enforcement partners.
Exact figures on how much was seized vary depending on the source. According to KATU, federal investigators seized 6,300 kilograms of narcotics. SuperTalk Mississippi reported a slightly different total, saying HSI Hattiesburg found 6,400 kilograms of cocaine and marijuana combined. A separate breakdown from ICE put the two vessels' cargo at approximately 3,188 kilograms of cocaine and 3,200 kilograms of marijuana, a figure that doesn't precisely match either of the other totals. ICE estimated the street value at more than $80.5 million, while SuperTalk reported it was around $80.5 million.
Two Go-Fast Boats, One Coordinated Takedown
The operation centered on two vessels described as go-fast boats, a type of craft used by smugglers and known for its speed. SuperTalk's report notes that HSI Hattiesburg worked alongside the Homeland Security Task Force through Operation Iron Current to seize the two vessels, and that HSI coordinated with domestic and international law enforcement partners throughout the investigation.
SuperTalk also reported that the narcotics were allegedly shipped to the United States by a Colombian cartel, though the station's account cautions that the investigation remains ongoing and that information is limited. Agencies involved have not specified the interception dates or locations, and it has not been disclosed whether anyone was arrested in connection with the seizures.
Officials Vow to Keep Pressure on Trafficking Networks
HSI is the investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security and handles cross-border crimes including drug trafficking. In comments tied to the case, Matt Wright said transnational criminal organizations exploit maritime routes to move dangerous drugs and profit from crime. He added that HSI remains committed to working with law enforcement partners to disrupt networks, seize illicit narcotics, and hold those responsible accountable.
The U.S. Coast Guard said it seized nearly 510,000 pounds of cocaine in the Eastern Pacific Ocean and Caribbean during fiscal year 2025, which it described, per U.S. Coast Guard News, as the largest amount in the service's history. The Department of Homeland Security separately reported that the Coast Guard had seized 242,244 pounds of cocaine since January 20, 2025, according to a release from the Department of Homeland Security.
Recent Caribbean Interdictions Add Context
Other recent interdictions illustrate how frequently these operations are playing out at sea. On October 5, a suspected drug-smuggling vessel was intercepted approximately 100 miles south of the Dominican Republic, according to CBS 12. Crews aboard the Cutter Tahoma later offloaded approximately 3,622 pounds of cocaine, valued at more than $27 million, at Port Everglades, the station reported, with four people detained during those operations and taken into federal custody.
Back in Mississippi, officials have offered few additional details on Operation Iron Current beyond the seizure totals and the Colombia-based trafficking organization it targeted. The investigation remains ongoing, and it's unclear when, or if, further updates — including any arrests — will be announced.
