A four-week regional maritime operation has disrupted smuggling networks across the Caribbean and led to the seizure of an estimated US$54.5 million in illicit assets and contraband.

Dubbed Operation Eclipse, the initiative took place in May and was coordinated by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (IMPACS), with support from regional and international partners.

The operation brought together authorities from 14 CARICOM member states and seven associate members. Canada, Colombia, France, the United Kingdom, the United States and INTERPOL also supported the effort.

Authorities targeted trafficking and smuggling routes operating across the Caribbean. A central intelligence unit at the CARICOM IMPACS Joint Regional Communications Centre helped participating agencies monitor maritime activity and share information.

During the operation, officials opened 82 intelligence cases, monitored 59 vessels of interest and carried out 24 successful seizures.

The largest seizures involved illegal drugs. Authorities recovered 5,222.59 kilograms of cocaine, valued at more than US$44 million. They also seized 1,848 kilograms of marijuana worth more than US$6.84 million.

The drugs were found aboard go-fast boats, yachts and inter-island cargo vessels.

Authorities also confiscated more than 6,100 cases of illegal alcohol, 191 cartons of cigarettes and 22 cylinders of banned refrigerant gas. The combined value of those items exceeded US$1.58 million.

Enforcement teams seized two firearms, 65 rounds of ammunition, 13 vessels and three vehicles allegedly linked to smuggling operations.

The operation also intercepted 59 irregular migrants travelling through different air and sea routes.

Officials said contraband smuggling made up the largest share of maritime cases, accounting for 32.9%. Cocaine trafficking followed at 23.2%. Authorities focused much of their work on the Eastern Caribbean, Guyanese waters and transatlantic routes.

Investigators also uncovered an emerging method involving aircraft dropping narcotics near borders for later collection by boats.

CARICOM IMPACS said intelligence gathered during the operation will help countries strengthen border policies and identify criminal networks operating across the region.

The agency said Operation Eclipse demonstrated the importance of regional cooperation in tackling organised crime and strengthening Caribbean maritime security.