Source: Government of Canada News
Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife returned to their home port of Esquimalt, British Columbia, after a successful seven-week deployment on Operation CARIBBE.
September 25, 2024 – Esquimalt, B.C. – Department of National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Today, His Majesty’s Canadian Ships (HMCS) Edmonton and Yellowknife returned to their home port of Esquimalt, British Columbia, after a successful seven-week deployment on Operation CARIBBE.
During this deployment, on September 5, 2024, HMCS Yellowknife intercepted a drug smuggling vessel, in close partnership with the embarked United States Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment. This interdiction, approximately 430 nautical miles southwest of Acapulco, Mexico, resulted in the seizure approximately 1,400 kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $60 million (Canadian).
Operation CARIBBE is Canada’s contribution to the U.S.-led Enhanced Counternarcotics Operations under Joint Interagency Task Force – South, which is responsible for conducting interagency and international detection, monitoring operations, and facilitating the interdiction of illicit trafficking. This Operation is one of the many activities undertaken by the Government of Canada to suppress transnational criminal activity at sea and help keep drugs off Canadian streets.
“The performance of HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife on Operation CARIBBE was outstanding, bringing great credit to Canada’s Pacific Fleet. The skill and professionalism of both crews, in joint operations with our American allies, enabled the seizure of tens of millions of dollars’ worth of dangerous narcotics. This impressive seizure demonstrably showcases how Canada’s Navy contributes to the overall safety of Canadians. Welcome home and congratulations— you’ve earned it.”
– Rear-Admiral Christopher Robinson, Commander Maritime Forces Pacific
“I would like to thank the crews of HMCS Edmonton and Yellowknife, as well as the embarked U.S. Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment team who deployed with us. We are proud of our contribution to multinational efforts impeding the flow of illicit narcotics into North America. Through our collaborative efforts, we helped improve the safety and security of Canada.”
– Lieutenant-Commander Tyson Babcock, Commanding Officer of HMCS Yellowknife