Drug Seizure on Passenger Catamaran in Punta Arenas

As part of the control and inspection activities of the Maritime Authority, Maritime Police personnel conducted a passenger inspection aboard a catamaran in Bahía Carrera, south of Punta Arenas, where the drug detection dog reacted to the presence of illicit substances, violating Law 20.000. Once the offenders were identified, the duty prosecutor was informed, who ordered a warning for those involved, the seizure of the substances, and their referral to the Health Service for subsequent destruction, in addition to reporting to the Public Prosecutor's Office.

The procedure included the inspection of hold luggage and hand luggage in the passenger lounge, where 79 people heading to the Aracena and Cockburn cultivation centers were controlled.

During the inspection, the canine unit marked positive on five individuals, who underwent an investigative identity check, along with a search of their clothing and luggage, in compliance with the respective protocols. As a result of the diligence, a total of 199 grams of cannabis was found, in addition to a 53-gram cannabis-reactive brownie-type substance, two grinders, and pipe-type paraphernalia for consuming the substance.

The Captain of the Port of Punta Arenas, Frigate Captain Fernando Díez, stated that 'this operation is part of the Maritime Authority's permanent deployment, operating under established legal protocols and powers, being part of the ongoing effort where specialist Maritime Police personnel are deployed throughout the jurisdiction.'

The Maritime Authority carries out constant inspection and control operations, contributing to the safeguarding of security in port terminals and vessels, operating along the coast.