Colombia has witnessed a striking development in the fight against drug trafficking. The Colombian Navy intercepted an unmanned semi-submersible vessel belonging to the Gulf Clan drug cartel off the coast of Santa Marta in northern Colombia. This operation marks not only a significant step in combating smuggling but also a notable milestone in the illegal use of advanced technology.
A New Era in Drug Trafficking Technology: Remote Control via Starlink
The seized vehicle was found to be equipped with the Starlink satellite internet system. This allowed traffickers to remotely control the submarine over long distances without a crew onboard. This capability is seen as the latest example of cartels’ efforts to make their operations both more covert and less risky.
Authorities emphasized that such technologies are increasingly employed by organized crime networks, posing threats not only to local security but also in terms of digital security.
A First for Colombia
Colombian security forces regard the seizure of the first Starlink-connected unmanned semi-submersible as a new phase in the battle against advanced technologies used in illicit activities. Navy officials announced that following this development, measures to combat technology-supported trafficking on both land and sea will be further intensified.
The cartels’ growing tendency to adopt high technology for their operations necessitates a reassessment of regional security strategies and cross-border cooperation.
