Venezuela’s 2025 drug crackdown: 402 aircrafts, 56 tons seized
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Venezuela intensifies its fight against drug trafficking, seizing over 55 tons of narcotics and dismantling aerial smuggling operations.
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Venezuelan Interior Minister Diasdado Cabello (AFP)
Venezuelan authorities have intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, achieving remarkable results in 2025. According to Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello, security forces have seized over 56 tons of narcotics and neutralized more than 400 aircraft used for smuggling operations.
Cabello highlighted the scale of the crackdown, calling it a critical milestone in defending national sovereignty. "This is essential to guaranteeing Venezuela's sovereignty and territorial integrity," he stated, noting that the operation extended far beyond the volume of drugs confiscated.
The anti-narcotics operations targeted not only drug shipments but also the logistics networks enabling trafficking. Authorities dismantled entire infrastructures, including clandestine shipyards, boats, fuel supplies, and airstrips. Notably, 401 aircraft and 94 airstrips were neutralized, many of which were being used with near-total impunity.
One recent example was the interception of a Brazilian-registered plane in the municipality of Maroa, Amazonas state, underscoring the enhanced surveillance along border regions.
Role of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces
Cabello praised the coordinated efforts of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces, National Police, and the Venezuelan populace. Their unity, he stressed, has been key to confronting and dismantling criminal networks that pose a threat to national stability.
The armed forces, under Operation Sifontes, have extended maritime and river patrols across 3,500 waterways in regions including Delta Amacuro and Sucre. This initiative is part of a broader security strategy aimed at securing Venezuela's Eastern Crescent from illegal activities.
Security risks beyond narcotics
In addition to narcotics, the authorities also intercepted a large cache of explosives in Maturín, Monagas state. Among the materials seized were detonators, wiring, and over 1,000 boxes of hollow charges, all of which presented a significant threat to public safety.
Eight individuals were arrested in connection with the explosives, which were allegedly linked to extremist opposition groups and foreign-trained mercenaries.
Strengthening border surveillance and sovereignty
Additionally, to secure the Venezuelan-Colombian border, 15,000 troops and militia have been deployed to Peace Zone No. 1, covering Táchira and Zulia states. This force aims to secure corridors historically exploited by traffickers while laying the groundwork for long-term development.
Through integrated operations, surveillance, and mobilization, Venezuelan authorities continue to emphasize a strategy of territorial control and state-led initiatives, rejecting foreign military intervention in favor of national solutions.
