MIAMI – Detecting the drug smugglers' sleek wave-breaking "Picuda" -- a go-fast boat that can defy radar detection -- has been a challenge for authorities for a few years now
On Friday, the U.S. Coast Guard won out over the smugglers. They recovered 650 pounds of marijuana off the coast of Jamaica. Authorities estimate its wholesale value at $600,000.
"We face a sophisticated adversary that leverages high-tech conveyances such as semi- and fully-submersibles, employs multiple go-fast vessels to move drug shipments, and deploys beacons if forced to jettison bales of contraband to allow later relocation," said Vice Adm. Charles Michel.
The Coast Guard cutter "Dependable" chased the go-fast boat and a crew member fired at one of the vessel's outboard engines. There were four people on board.
The Coast Guard brought the 25 bales of marijuana and the suspected smugglers to the base in Miami.
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