(PLTM) - UPDATE: Police Information Office - Press Release - Saturday, June 1, 2024
After 11 pm on May 30, during a joint operation involving officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force Marine Unit and US Customs and Border Patrol, a suspicious vessel was intercepted. A search of the vessel revealed multiple packages believed to contain cocaine, with an estimated value exceeding $34 million.
The three men on board, identified as Julio Cabrera Martinez, 40, Tomas Balbuena Acosta, 55, and Remigio De Los Santos, 62, have been charged with Possession of a Controlled Drug and Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply.
Commissioner Collins stated, “This significant bust underscores the RVIPF’s ongoing commitment to disrupting drug trafficking operations in the Virgin Islands.”
The suspects are currently in custody pending their appearance at the Magistrate’s Court.
Previous Statement - Police Information Office - Press Statement - Friday, May 31, 2024
VESSEL INTERCEPTED - Officers of the RVIPF's Marine Unit received a report of a suspicious vessel while on patrol after 11 pm on May 30. In collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, the officers intercepted and searched the vessel. During the search, several concealed packages suspected to contain cocaine were discovered. The three male occupants of the vessel were arrested and are currently in custody pending further investigations.
Additional information will be provided as the investigation progresses.