In a statement, Casey Durst, CBP Director of Field Operations in Baltimore, said, “Seizing a vessel of this size is an unusual enforcement action for CBP, but is indicative of the serious consequences associated with an alleged conspiracy by crewmembers and others to smuggle a record load of dangerous drugs through the United States.”
“This action serves as a reminder for all shipping lines and vessel masters of their responsibilities under U.S. and international law to implement and enforce stringent security measures to prevent smuggling attempts such as this,” he added.
On the other hand, U.S. Attorney William McSwain commented, “When a vessel brings such an outrageous amount of deadly drugs into Philadelphia waters, my Office and our agency partners will pursue the most severe consequences possible against all involved parties in order to protect our district – and our country.”
MSC has been helping federal authorities disrupt illegal drug trafficking
Meanwhile, MSC issued a statement last month expressing its gratitude to the authorities for “identifying any suspected abuse of services.” The company also said it is taking the illegal drug trafficking “very seriously.”
