US and Ecuador sink drug-linked vessel in Pacific, crew denies charges

U.S. Southern Command, in collaboration with Ecuador, executed the interdiction and sinking of a vessel in the eastern Pacific Ocean on August 28, 2026. U.S. officials stated the ship served as a floating refueling station supporting drug trafficking operations and was linked to the criminal group Los Choneros.

Joint Task Force Western Hemisphere, under the direction of SOUTHCOM Commander Gen. Francis L. Donovan, boarded, searched, and secured the vessel. The U.S. command described the operation as a success in disrupting a critical logistical point for traffickers. Intelligence reportedly identified the vessel and indicated it was subject to Treasury Department sanctions.

However, the crew members apprehended and transferred to Ecuador have refuted the allegations. Speaking to Ecuadorian media in Manta, one crew member, Darlin Macías, asserted they were engaged in fishing. Other individuals on board also claimed mistreatment during the U.S. operation. This stark contrast in accounts highlights the ongoing challenges in combating drug trafficking and the complexities of international interdiction efforts.

The U.S. designated Los Choneros as a 'narcoterrorist' organization as part of its strategy against international drug trafficking groups. The operation underscores the strengthened bilateral cooperation between the U.S. and Ecuador in security matters, particularly concerning the persistent threat of organized crime and narcotics smuggling in the region.