JAMAICA–Police seize record 5,100 kg of cocaine in first half of 2026

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – Jamaican law enforcement authorities are reporting a record-breaking surge in cocaine seizures, with drugs valued at an estimated J$3 billion confiscated during the first half of 2026.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) said the unprecedented seizures resulted from targeted operations conducted by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID), aimed at disrupting transnational organized crime networks operating in and through Jamaica.

According to police statistics, more than 5,100 kilograms (11,000 pounds) of cocaine have been seized since the start of the year, making it the largest cocaine haul recorded in the past decade.

The amount confiscated during the first six months of 2026 exceeds the combined total seized over six consecutive years, from 2016 to 2021. During that period, authorities recovered 4,916 kilograms of cocaine.

Police data show that between 2016 and 2025, a total of 11,852 kilograms of cocaine were seized nationwide. The 2026 figure alone represents approximately 43 percent of that decade-long total.

This year’s seizures have also more than doubled the previous annual record of 2,508 kilograms, set in 2024.

Director of the FNID, Superintendent Patrae Rowe, described the achievement as a major blow to international drug trafficking operations.

“Removing more than 5,000 kilograms of cocaine from the illicit market in less than six months is a significant accomplishment for our investigators and border security partners,” Rowe said.

He noted that the seizures have dealt a substantial financial setback to criminal organizations.

“This $3 billion seizure directly impacts the financial infrastructure of criminal syndicates and helps prevent the violence and criminal activity associated with the drug trade from reaching our communities,” he said.

Rowe emphasized that the police remain committed to identifying, targeting, and dismantling the criminal networks responsible for trafficking narcotics through Jamaica.

The JCF said it will continue working closely with local and international partners to strengthen border security and disrupt the operations of organized crime groups involved in the illegal drug trade.