HATTIESBURG, Miss. — Federal agents seized more than 6,000 kilograms of cocaine and marijuana worth over $80.5 million from two smuggling boats in a maritime operation targeting a Colombia-based drug trafficking organization, Homeland Security Investigations announced Friday.
Read the ICE release: https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-hattiesburg-seizes-over-6000-kg-narcotics-worth-805m-during-operation-iron
The Seizure, The Boats, The Drugs
The investigation, known as Operation Iron Current, led to the coordinated interdiction and seizure of two go-fast vessels by HSI and its interagency partners.
The vessels carried a combined total of approximately 3,188 kilograms of cocaine and 3,200 kilograms of marijuana.
The estimated street value of the seized narcotics exceeds $80.5 million.
The Organization, The Route, The Partners
HSI Hattiesburg, working as part of the Homeland Security Task Force, is investigating a Colombia-based drug trafficking organization suspected of distributing thousands of kilograms of cocaine into the United States.
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HSI worked with domestic and international law enforcement partners to share information supporting maritime counternarcotics enforcement efforts.
"Transnational criminal organizations exploit maritime routes to move dangerous drugs and profit from crime," said HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. "HSI remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to disrupt these networks, seize illicit narcotics, and hold those responsible accountable."
The Investigation, The Tip Line, The Next Step
The investigation remains ongoing, and no arrests or charges were announced in the release.
Anyone with information about drug trafficking or other crimes can report it by calling 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
Sources
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, "HSI Hattiesburg seizes over 6,000 kg of narcotics worth $80.5M during Operation Iron Current," November 6, 2026: https://www.ice.gov/news/releases/hsi-hattiesburg-seizes-over-6000-kg-narcotics-worth-805m-during-operation-iron
Transparency notes
Published: Nov 6, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
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