Atlantic Ocean becomes central hub for sophisticated drug trafficking

The Atlantic Ocean is increasingly serving as a central logistical hub for international drug trafficking, characterized by highly sophisticated smuggling mechanisms. Criminal organizations are utilizing a fragmented logistical model to minimize risk, often employing 'narcolanchas'—fast boats used for the final stages of transport.

Two distinct maritime drug highways have been identified: one dedicated to the smuggling of hashish and fuel, and another focused on cocaine. In cocaine operations, large vessels transport cargo across the Atlantic toward European waters, where the drugs are then transferred to smaller, faster vessels for coastal delivery. This method allows criminal networks to separate the financiers and coordinators from those physically transporting the narcotics.