Maritime Rescue assists the patrol boat "Río Ara" after taking on water during a drug trafficking pursuit

The patrol boat "Río Ara" of the Civil Guard Maritime Service had to be assisted by a Maritime Rescue helicopter after taking on water during an operation against drug trafficking in waters near the Canary Islands, according to Canarias7.

The operation began last Tuesday, September 1, when the patrol boat located and intercepted a rigid-hulled inflatable boat used to transport drugs. During the boarding maneuvers, the patrol boat took on water.

At first, the water ingress did not seem serious, but the situation worsened in the following hours. Due to the risk of sinking, a Maritime Rescue helicopter approached to deliver a bilge pump to the crew.

The agents also closed the forward cabin to try to contain the water ingress. Finally, they managed to keep the patrol boat afloat and complete the navigation to the port of Las Palmas.

As a result of the intervention, the agents seized 3,361 kilos of cocaine and two assault rifles. The five detainees have already been brought before the courts.

Photo: Gonzalo Fernández Marín