Record 35.7 Tonnes of Drugs Seized in Antilles

The Forces armées aux Antilles (FAA) have announced a landmark achievement in the region's ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking. In a formal communiqué, the military command revealed that 35.7 tonnes of illicit substances were seized throughout 2025.

This unprecedented haul represents a significant blow to criminal networks operating across the Caribbean. The sheer volume of narcotics intercepted highlights both the scale of trafficking operations and the effectiveness of recent interdiction efforts.

The announcement marks a pivotal moment in regional security, demonstrating the FAA's enhanced capabilities in monitoring and securing vast maritime territories. This operation is the culmination of coordinated efforts across multiple agencies and jurisdictions.

The record-breaking seizure was the result of ten distinct operations conducted throughout the year. Each operation targeted different smuggling routes and methods used by trafficking organizations.

The breakdown of the seized narcotics reveals a dominant presence of cocaine in the region's drug trade:

• 31.8 tonnes of cocaine - the primary substance intercepted
• 3.9 tonnes of cannabis - secondary drug category seized
• 35.7 tonnes total - combined weight of all narcotics

The predominance of cocaine suggests that transnational trafficking networks continue to view the Antilles as a critical transit corridor for South American production destined for global markets. The cannabis seizures, while smaller in volume, indicate diverse smuggling attempts across the region.

The 35.7-tonne seizure represents more than just a numerical achievement; it signals a strategic shift in the region's anti-trafficking posture. The FAA's ability to intercept such substantial quantities demonstrates improved intelligence gathering and operational coordination.

These seizures disrupt the financial backbone of criminal organizations. Each tonne of cocaine represents millions of dollars in lost revenue for trafficking networks, creating significant pressure on their operational capabilities.

«dix saisies réalisées pour un poids total de 35,7 tonnes»

The operation's success also reflects broader regional cooperation. While the FAA led the effort, such large-scale interdictions typically involve coordination with international partners, including UN agencies and neighboring countries' security forces. The Antilles' strategic location makes it a crucial frontline in the global war on drugs.

The Antilles region faces unique challenges in combating drug trafficking due to its geography. The vast maritime expanse and numerous islands create opportunities for traffickers to exploit gaps in surveillance and enforcement.

However, this year's record seizure demonstrates that these vulnerabilities are being systematically addressed. The FAA's success sends a clear message to trafficking organizations about the increasing risks and costs of operating in these waters.

Local communities stand to benefit from these enforcement actions. Reduced drug trafficking correlates with decreased violence, lower corruption levels, and improved economic stability. The seizure of such large quantities prevents these narcotics from reaching street markets, potentially saving countless lives.

The 2025 record sets a new benchmark for future anti-trafficking operations in the region. It establishes a baseline against which subsequent years' performance will be measured.

Law enforcement officials will likely analyze the methods and intelligence that led to these successful seizures to replicate them in future operations. The FAA's communiqué suggests that sustained investment in maritime surveillance and interdiction capabilities remains a priority.

As trafficking organizations adapt their routes and methods in response to this year's losses, the region's security forces must remain vigilant and innovative. The battle against narcotics trafficking is dynamic, requiring continuous evolution in tactics and technology.