Necoclí, Colombia – February 12, 2024: In a major victory against drug trafficking, Colombian military and police forces unearthed a hidden stash of cocaine weighing over 5 tons, dealing a significant blow to the finances of the Clan del Golfo cartel.
Joint operations between different armed forces, led authorities to a seemingly inconspicuous wooden house in the rural area of Necoclí, within the Antioquia region’s Urabá subregion. However, further investigation revealed a meticulously constructed underground chamber, carefully waterproofed to conceal its illicit contents. Inside, authorities discovered a staggering 5,700 kilograms (5.7 tons) of cocaine hydrochloride, packaged and ready for international shipment.
“This represents the largest seizure of cocaine in the Urabá region this year, and a major setback for the Clan del Golfo’s criminal operations,” declared a spokesperson for the Colombian National Army. “The drugs were likely destined for Central America and the United States, fueling addiction and violence across our borders.”
Officials believe the confiscated cocaine belonged to the Gabriel Poveda Ramos substructure of the Clan del Golfo, estimated to be worth over 600 billion Colombian pesos (approximately $150 million USD). One suspect was apprehended in connection with the operation, and both the individual and the seized drugs will face legal proceedings.
The successful operation not only disrupts the Clan del Golfo’s financial capacity but also dismantles their logistical networks within the Urabá region. Military forces continue their search for additional hidden stashes and aim to dismantle the cartel’s activities permanently.