On Sunday night, President Nayib Bukele reported a historic drug seizure by the Salvadoran National Navy, which intercepted 6.6 tons of cocaine approximately 703.7 kilometers off the Pacific coast of El Salvador. This operation marks the largest drug apprehension in the country's history, with the cocaine valued at around $165 million. The drugs were found hidden in ballast tanks aboard the FMS EAGLE, a multipurpose support vessel registered under the flag of Tanzania.

Bukele highlighted the importance of this operation, which utilized skilled divers from the National Navy to locate and confirm the illicit cargo's presence. The rigorous inspection processes led to the successful interception of the vessel, showcasing El Salvador's commitment to tackling drug trafficking that often originates from Africa and affects Central America. Bukele's administration has prioritized combatting drug-related crimes, indicating strong measures to address the challenges posed by international drug trafficking networks.

This seizure not only represents a significant enforcement victory for El Salvador but also underscores the growing challenges of drug trafficking in the region, especially as syndicates seek new routes from Africa to the Americas. The implications of this seizure could strengthen international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, as well as enhance the visibility of El Salvador's efforts to combat organized crime, potentially impacting foreign relations, particularly with neighboring countries affected by drug trade dynamics.