Five Colombians Accused of Constructing Fiberglass Submarines for Drug Trafficking
On August 27, 2025, the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) seized 2,769 kilograms of marijuana and 77 kilograms of cocaine in Amazonas state, a region in southern Venezuela near the borders with Brazil and Colombia, Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello announced, reports 24brussels.
Additionally, the FANB apprehended two individuals in Falcon state for transporting 47.35 kilograms of marijuana and 3.25 kilograms of cocaine, according to FANB Operational Strategic Commander Domingo Hernandez Larez.
In a separate operation in Delta Amacuro state, the FANB dismantled six shipyards utilized as logistical bases for the construction and repair of boats associated with Colombian drug trafficking, Hernandez Larez stated.
Five Colombian nationals were detained during this operation, allegedly specializing in building fiberglass submarines. Troops uncovered blueprints for constructing semi-submersibles, repair materials, mechanical components, fuel, and other logistical supplies at the site.
A day prior, Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino Lopez characterized the deployment of larger vessels in the Caribbean to combat drug trafficking as essential. This initiative is part of the expanded Operation Relampago del Catatumbo, which reinforces the military presence in border areas with Colombia.
Padrino Lopez indicated that the security operation, initiated in January, is being intensified following the establishment of a binational “development and peace zone” between Venezuela and Colombia.
The government plans to deploy aircraft, helicopters, surveillance and intelligence systems, and reconnaissance units. Approximately 15,000 troops will monitor 851 kilometers of the 2,219-kilometer border shared between Venezuela and Colombia.
