WASHINGTON(FN)-U.S. Forces killed 14 people in coordinated strikes that destroyed four suspected drug-smuggling boats in the eastern Pacific Ocean, Defense secretary Pete Hegseth said Tuesday, intensifying Washington’s controversial anti-narcotics campaign.
The strikes carried out Monday in international waters, targeted vessels allegedly operated by a designated terrorist organization and transiting known trafficking routes. One survivor was reported, but officials have not confirmed whether the individual was found or rescued.
“These were narco-terrorist vessels,” Hegseth said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. “A total of 14 narco-terrorists were killed during the three strikes, with one survivor. All strikes were in international waters with no U.S. forces harmed.”
The Pentagon chief’s post included video footage of the operations. The first strike hit two stationary boats moored together, while the other two targeted vessels speeding across open water. The footage showed aerial views moments before impact.
Hegseth said U.S. Southern Command “immediately” began searching for the sole survivor and that Mexican authorities “accepted the case and assumed responsibility for coordinating the rescue.” No further details were provided about the survivor’s condition or whereabouts.
The campaign, launched in early September, has now destroyed at least 14 vessels in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, with a reported death toll of 57. U.S. officials say the operations aim to dismantle transnational drug networks threatening regional stability.
Legal experts have questioned the legitimacy of the strikes, citing concerns over the use of lethal force in international waters without judicial oversight. “These actions may violate international law and erode norms around due process,” said Dr. Elena Ruiz, a maritime law scholar.
The strikes come amid a broader crackdown on drug trafficking across the globe. In related incidents, three India-based Nigerian women were arrested for drug trafficking, police in Jigawa State seized ₦400,000 during a drug raid, and an NDLEA officer was injured in an ambush by drug barons in Edo State.
Human rights advocates have called for greater transparency in the U.S. campaign. “Killing suspects without trial, especially outside national borders, raises serious ethical questions,” said James Okoro of the Global Justice Forum.
Despite mounting criticism, the Pentagon has signaled that operations will continue in coordination with regional partners. Officials maintain that the campaign is necessary to disrupt narcotics supply chains and protect U.S. national interests.
