Brazilian authorities reported the seizure of 134 kilograms of cocaine hidden in the hull of the cargo ship Polsteam Łebsko. Operated by Polish Steamship Company (PŻM), the vessel sails under a Liberian flag. The drugs were discovered on December 18 in the port of Santos, one of Latin America’s largest container ports. The ship was reportedly en route to Morocco.
According to PŻM spokesperson Krzysztof Gogol, the cocaine was likely planted by a group linked to a drug cartel, specializing in such operations. South American cartels increasingly use commercial vessels, employing divers and specialized boats for smuggling operations. The drugs were concealed in a sea chest, a hull compartment used for cooling engines, alongside a Glock firearm and ammunition.
Previous Incident Involving PŻM
This is not the first time a PŻM vessel has been involved in a drug smuggling case. In October, Brazilian authorities detained the Jawor after nearly half a ton of cocaine was found onboard. The crew reported the find and cooperated with authorities. Though detained for two months, they were released without charges in December.
The case highlights the growing challenges of combating drug trafficking through maritime routes. Commercial shipping vessels remain attractive targets for cartels due to their global reach and accessibility.