Federal Authorities Seize $4.6 Million Worth of Cocaine Near Puerto Rico

Federal authorities intercepted a boat carrying over 500 pounds of cocaine near Puerto Rico, seizing $4.6 million worth of drugs and arresting two US citizens. Another smuggling attempt involving 350 pounds of cocaine was thwarted earlier in the week. Puerto Rico is a known transit point for drugs to the US mainland and other countries.

Federal authorities intercepted a boat on Friday carrying more than 500 pounds (230 kilograms) of cocaine, valued at $4.6 million, near Puerto Rico. Two US citizens aboard the boat were arrested.

The operation took place near Desecheo Island, just west of the US territory. Earlier in the week, a separate attempt to smuggle 350 pounds (158 kilograms) of cocaine through the island of Culebra, east of Puerto Rico, was also thwarted.

Puerto Rico is recognized as a critical transit point for drugs destined for the US mainland and other international locales, authorities noted.

(With inputs from agencies.)