UMVA has learned that a daring operation off the coast of California has led to the arrest of a suspected drug smuggler and the seizure of $6.4 million worth of cocaine from an oil tanker bound for a Mexican drug cartel.
The suspect, Ceasar Tubay Gelacio Jr., 43, of the Philippines, has been charged with importation of a controlled substance, according to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The joint operation was conducted by federal agents, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the U.S. Coast Guard aboard the Motor Tanker Aquatravesia, a crude oil tanker docked at the Port of Los Angeles.
The breakthrough came when a Coast Guard narcotics detection canine alerted authorities to suspected contraband, leading investigators to discover 500 pounds of cocaine hidden in the cargo. The massive haul, worth approximately $6.4 million, was destined for a Mexican cartel.
HSI Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang hailed the operation as a major victory, saying it showcased the agency's "unwavering commitment to combating transnational crime and safeguarding the United States from illicit narcotics." Wang emphasized the critical role of HSI's swift response and investigative expertise in identifying and seizing the cocaine.
The successful operation was a testament to the coordination and cooperation between agencies, with Capt. Stacey Crecy, sector commander for Coast Guard Sector Los Angeles-Long Beach, praising the "coordinated efforts" of DHS agencies working to dismantle drug-smuggling operations.
According to information obtained by UMVA, authorities received a tip that the Greek-owned, Liberian-flagged Aquatravesia was carrying a large shipment of drugs intended for a Mexican cartel. The ship's crew allegedly discovered numerous packages hidden inside the vessel's garbage room, which were believed to contain narcotics.
The investigation revealed that Gelacio received the narcotics in Ecuador and intended to distribute them to another party while the ship traveled near Mexico. If convicted, Gelacio faces a maximum sentence of life in prison.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that two additional individuals were also taken into custody in connection with the operation, as authorities continue to disrupt and dismantle the cartel's smuggling operations.
The dramatic events unfolded after the ship's captain received radio calls from cartel members attempting to communicate with the Aquatravesia before boarding or seizing the vessel. Prosecutors said the captain was allegedly told cartel members would be waiting offshore to retrieve the drugs.
