Dutch authorities caught a group of smugglers tossing large bundles of cocaine overboard from an unnamed containership that was sailing along the Dutch coast, the Amsterdam Public Prosecution Service reported. The operation took place on March 15 off the coast of Zeeland near Neltje Jans.
Five suspects, aged 34 to 61 and residents of Dutch cities, were caught in the act during the intensive maritime enforcement operation. Prosecutors confirmed that the shipment included hundreds of kilograms of cocaine, thrown from the deck of the containership in what is known as the “drop-off method.” Smaller, fast boats are typically used to retrieve the packages and transport them ashore.
Authorities also seized a high-speed motorboat believed to have been purchased through a sham arrangement. The investigation is ongoing, with further details withheld pending the outcome.
This method of maritime drug smuggling has become increasingly common worldwide. In previous incidents, authorities in Australia and Spain reported similar tactics, including drugs concealed on board containerships and retrieved using fast boats or flotation devices.
