Half A Ton of Narcotics Seized In Major Maritime Bust Off Miami-Dade Coast

Miami-Dade, FL - Authorities in South Florida seized more than 1,100 pounds of narcotics and arrested two suspects after intercepting a vessel allegedly involved in drug smuggling.

According to state officials, the incident unfolded as officers with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) were conducting patrols in Miami-Dade County waters.

During their operation, officers encountered a suspicious vessel and coordinated with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to escort the boat to the U.S. Coast Guard station in Miami Beach for inspection.

Upon arrival, a K-9 unit conducted a sweep of the vessel, leading to the discovery of roughly 1,150 pounds of illegal substances hidden inside the boat’s cabin.

Two individuals on board were taken into custody, though their identities and specific charges have not yet been released.

The confiscated drugs were turned over to federal authorities as part of an ongoing investigation.

This drug seizure was carried out under "Operation Tidal Wave," a broad, multi-agency initiative launched by the state of Florida to combat illegal immigration and cross-border smuggling.

The operation has already resulted in hundreds of arrests in recent days, targeting suspected undocumented immigrants and individuals allegedly connected to criminal enterprises.

Governor Ron DeSantis has touted the initiative as a “first-of-its-kind joint effort,” involving federal, state, and local agencies.

Officials say the operation is ongoing and expect further enforcement actions in the coming weeks.

The FWC, traditionally focused on conservation and maritime safety, has played a key role in intercepting illegal activities off Florida’s coast under this new enforcement strategy.