August 14, 2026

Jamaica Customs says last week’s drug seizure was the highest recorded since the start of the year

The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) says last week’s drug seizure was the highest recorded since the start of the year, with over 2,000 kilogrammes of cocaine and over 200 pounds of ganja seized.

JCA says the success resulted from the strategic use of enhanced technology, strengthened enforcement measures, and increased collaboration with local and international law enforcement partners.

Jamaica Customs says the operation, which started on Wednesday, August 5 and concluded on Friday, August 7, included a team from JCA as well as members from the JCF’s Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division and Specialised Operations Branch.

Approximately 1,813 parcels of cocaine weighing over 2,000 kilogrammes were seized in containers destined for Spain and Florida.

While ganja, weighing 256 pounds, also destined for Florida, was seized.

Customs says the local street value of the seized cocaine was estimated at J$1.2 billion, while the international market value based on the country of destination was estimated at 116 million euros (equivalent to J$21 billion) and US$3.5 million equivalent to J$562.4 million.

JCA says the recent drug seizures demonstrate the value of this multi-faceted approach.

It adds that each successful interception represents not only a quantity of narcotics removed from circulation, but also a disruption to criminal networks seeking to exploit Jamaica’s borders for illicit activities.

the JCA says the advanced scanning mechanisms, usage of the recently-onboarded canines, investment in the capacity building of its human resources, and intelligence-driven operations have led to significant seizures in recent years.

Since the start of this year, there have been a total of 748 seizures of all contraband types.

Specifically, 140 seizures of ganja totalling 220 kg; 56 seizures of cocaine with a total weight of 2,281.85kg; 64 seizures of munitions, including 52 firearms and 6,081 assorted rounds of ammunition; and four MDMA/ecstasy seizures totalling 7,322 pills.

JCA says these successful interceptions underscore the agency’s continued commitment to protecting Jamaica’s borders, disrupting the illicit movement of narcotics, and facilitating legitimate trade and travel.

The agency says it remains committed to strengthening its border protection capabilities through technology, intelligence, enforcement and collaboration, and encourages members of the public to support Jamaica’s crime-fighting efforts.