Feb 14 • 02:40 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

US strikes second alleged drug boat in a week, bringing death toll to 133

The US military conducted its second strike against a drug smuggling vessel within a week, killing three individuals in the Caribbean.

The US military's Southern Command has confirmed a second strike against a suspected drug smuggling boat in a week, this time in the Caribbean, resulting in the deaths of three alleged traffickers. This operation aligns with the command's ongoing efforts to disrupt narcotics trafficking in key maritime routes. A video released alongside the announcement illustrated the moment the boat was hit, leading to a fatal explosion that underscores the military's commitment to engaging directly against drug-related activities in the region.

The recent strikes reflect an escalated approach by the US military to combat drug trafficking networks operating in Latin America and the Caribbean. The first strike occurred in the Pacific, where two suspected smugglers were killed. The consistent targeting of these vessels indicates a broader strategy to address the influx of narcotics into the US, which remains a significant challenge for law enforcement and public health.

As the death toll from these strikes rises to at least 133 individuals since operations intensified, the implications raise questions about the effectiveness and morality of such military interventions in drug enforcement. While officials argue that these actions are necessary for national security and public safety, critics may point to the potential for unintended consequences, including civilian casualties and the perpetuation of violence in drug-trafficking regions.

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