Suspected Drug Smuggler Arrested with $6.4 Million Cocaine Off California Coast
An individual suspected of drug smuggling was apprehended off California’s coast after federal agents found $6.4 million worth of cocaine aboard an oil tanker linked to a Mexican cartel. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California charged Ceasar Tubay Gelacio Jr., 43, from the Philippines, with importing a controlled substance.
Authorities explained that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Coast Guard conducted a collaborative operation on Thursday aboard the Motor Tanker Aquatravesia at the Port of Los Angeles. A Coast Guard detection dog alerted officials to possible contraband, leading investigators to confirm the presence of 500 pounds of cocaine, valued at approximately $6.4 million, as reported by the Department of Homeland Security.
Joint Efforts and Findings
The operation underscored HSI’s commitment to fighting transnational crime and protecting the U.S. from illegal drugs, according to HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. Wang emphasized the agency’s swift action and expertise in identifying and seizing over 226 kilograms of cocaine intended for domestic distribution. He affirmed the dedication to pursuing those who exploit ports and transportation systems and collaborating with partners to disrupt harmful criminal organizations.
Capt. Stacey Crecy, Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach commander, described the seizure as proof of DHS agencies’ coordinated efforts against drug-smuggling operations. Crecy stated, “Through stellar coordination, we effectively detained the suspect and removed the contraband from the vessel to protect the maritime transportation system and facilitate commerce as quickly as possible.”
Background and Investigation
An affidavit revealed that authorities received information regarding the Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged Aquatravesia, which last departed from Ecuador, carrying a large drug shipment intended for a Mexican cartel. Crew members reportedly discovered packages believed to contain narcotics hidden in the ship’s garbage room.
Prosecutors detailed that the captain interviewed crew members, learning that Gelacio allegedly owned the drugs. The captain moved the narcotics elsewhere on the ship. As the vessel remained in Mexican waters, the captain was informed that cartel operatives would await offshore to retrieve the drugs on May 14-15. If not delivered, other boats would intercept the vessel to recover the contraband.
Communication and Arrest
Prosecutors reported the captain received radio calls from cartel members attempting contact prior to boarding or seizing the vessel. U.S. authorities instructed the tanker to proceed to Los Angeles and Long Beach ports, where law enforcement boarded it Thursday.
Authorities allege Gelacio, who received the drugs in Ecuador, aimed to distribute them while the ship sailed near Mexico. If convicted, Gelacio faces life imprisonment.
DHS announced that two additional individuals were taken into custody concerning the operation.