Security Overview
Vessel Unnamed floating refueling vessel; name, flag, IMO and MMSI were not released
Location Eastern Pacific Ocean; coordinates were not released
Date 7 September 2026
A U.S. joint task force intercepted a vessel described by the command as a floating refueling station supporting illicit drug trafficking. Personnel removed everyone on board for transfer to Ecuadorian authorities, then sank the vessel. The command attributed the craft to Los Choneros on the basis of intelligence, but did not publish supporting evidence or identify the vessel.
Security Situation & Developments
The operation occurred on 7 September under U.S. Southern Command direction in the Eastern Pacific.
Boarding personnel cleared the vessel and removed its occupants before the hull was deliberately sunk.
Independent reporting confirmed the announcement and noted that Ecuadorian authorities had not immediately issued their own account.