Abu dhabi: The authorities in El Salvador seized more than six tonnes of cocaine being transported in the Pacific Ocean, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele said on Friday. The drugs were found on 18th June by the Salvadoran navy aboard two separate vessels, each carrying a similar quantity of cocaine and three crew members on board.
According to Emirates News Agency, the total value of the cocaine seized was estimated to be around US$167 million, as stated by President Bukele, who described the operation as 'a new national record'. He reported that six individuals were arrested in connection with the haul.
President Bukele emphasized that El Salvador is intensifying its efforts against drug trafficking, targeting areas where such activities previously occurred unchecked. He noted that the country has seized more than 13 tonnes of cocaine so far in 2026, a quantity valued at approximately $332 million.