Atlantic Ocean, more than 400 miles south of the Canary Islands — Spanish authorities carried out a high-risk maritime operation in rough seas, tracking a sailboat suspected of transporting narcotics across the Atlantic.

The vessel was monitored for several days using aerial and technical surveillance as strong winds and waves reaching around four meters prevented a direct approach. Operators continued tracking the sailboat remotely until conditions allowed a safe boarding.

Drone footage showed the sailboat moving through heavy swells while being closely monitored. An enforcement vessel later moved in and approached the target amid choppy waters and spray.

Officers boarded the sailboat and conducted a search of the cabin and interior spaces. Inside, they discovered tightly wrapped bundles of white packages secured in netting.

Three crew members were detained during the operation and transferred to a larger support vessel after the boarding was completed.

Approximately 500 kilograms of cocaine were seized in the June 17, 2026, interdiction carried out through a joint operation involving multiple agencies.

The seizure disrupted a major narcotics shipment believed to be bound for European markets.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download