A reported spike in drug smuggling incidents in Mexico reminds of the importance of preventative measures.
Correspondents P&I Services Mexico report that 2023 has seen a notable increase of narcotics related incidents in Mexican east coast ports.
The common method employed by smugglers in these instances is to hide the narcotics within the vessel’s sea chests, typically whilst the vessel is at anchorage.
It is also noted by correspondents that the incidents are not limited to a specific vessel type; all ships are vulnerable to being targeted by smugglers. They also advise that the affected vessels were not engaged on a common or similar trade routes. Previous and next ports of call were varied and not limited to the Latin American trade.