The U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced a successful operation targeting drug trafficking activities in the Eastern Pacific. This action involved the sinking of a vessel identified as a ‘floating refueling station’ connected to illicit operations.

On September 8, Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere (JTF-WHEM) forces, under SOUTHCOM’s direction, intercepted the refueling station. The operation was aimed at dismantling logistical networks supporting drug trafficking in the region.

The vessel’s involvement with Los Choneros, a violent narco-terrorist group, was confirmed through intelligence. After individuals were removed from the vessel and handed over to Ecuadorian authorities, U.S. forces sank the vessel.

A video released by SOUTHCOM captured the sinking of the vessel on September 8, 2026. The operation aligns with ongoing efforts to combat narco-trafficking activities supported by Los Choneros.

Los Choneros is a significant contributor to instability in Ecuador. The organization is engaged in various violent and criminal activities, including hired killings, kidnappings, political assassinations, and the smuggling of weapons, explosives, and drugs.

The group operates from prisons and illegal gold mines, collaborating with the Sinaloa Cartel and Albanian cartels to facilitate global drug shipments.

This operation is part of a series of efforts by U.S. forces to disrupt the networks fueling drug trafficking across the Western Hemisphere.