30 Chinese Nationals Among Those Arrested in Major US Drug and Illegal Immigration Bust

US law enforcement agencies, including the DEA, CBP AMO, and HSI, conducted a major maritime interception operation off Fort Pierce, Florida, on August 30, 2025. This multi-agency effort successfully stopped three vessels suspected of smuggling approximately 168 kilograms of cocaine and illegal immigrants from the Bahamas.

During the operation, 30 Chinese nationals, including two minors, believed to be illegal immigrants, along with five Bahamian nationals and three Bahamian counter-surveillance personnel, were apprehended. All suspects have been handed over to federal authorities for further investigation, with the Chinese nationals slated for repatriation. St. Lucie County Sheriff Richard DelToro emphasized the importance of this inter-agency cooperation in securing the community and preventing criminal groups from using US coasts.