A suspected drug smuggler was apprehended near the California coast as federal agents seized cocaine valued at $6.4 million aboard an oil tanker linked to a Mexican drug cartel. Ceasar Tubay Gelacio Jr., 43, from the Philippines, faces charges of importing a controlled substance, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California.
The operation, conducted by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the U.S. Coast Guard, took place on Thursday aboard the Motor Tanker Aquatravesia. This crude oil tanker was docked at the Port of Los Angeles. A narcotics detection dog from the Coast Guard indicated the presence of contraband. Investigators confirmed the discovery of 500 pounds of cocaine, valued at approximately $6.4 million, as reported by the Department of Homeland Security.
This operation underscores Homeland Security Investigations’ commitment to fighting transnational crime and protecting the United States from illicit drugs,stated Eddy Wang, HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge.
Wang emphasized the swift response and expertise of HSI, which were crucial in identifying and seizing over 226 kilograms of cocaine destined for U.S. communities. He reiterated their focus on pursuing those misusing transport systems to threaten public safety.
Capt. Stacey Crecy of Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach highlighted the seizure as a testament to the coordinated efforts of DHS agencies in dismantling drug operations. Through stellar cooperation, authorities detained the suspect and removed the cocaine from the vessel promptly.
According to court documents, authorities gathered intelligence about the Aquatravesia, Greek-owned and Liberian-flagged, which left Ecuador and was heading to the U.S. with drugs intended for a Mexican cartel. Crew members found multiple packages in the ship’s garbage room suspected to contain drugs.
The ship’s captain questioned the crew and found that the drugs allegedly belonged to Gelacio. The captain relocated the narcotics to another part of the vessel. When the Aquatravesia was still in Mexican waters, cartel members were allegedly awaiting 80 nautical miles offshore on May 14 and early May 15 to retrieve the drugs.
If the drugs were not delivered, it was alleged that other boats would intercept the vessel and recover the contraband. Prosecutors stated that cartel members communicated via radio before the vessel was boarded by U.S. authorities in Los Angeles and Long Beach ports.
Authorities allege Gelacio obtained the drugs in Ecuador, intending to hand them over while near Mexico. If convicted, Gelacio faces a maximum life sentence. DHS reported that two more individuals were arrested in relation to the case.