DEA reports surge in cocaine smuggling via maritime containers

Cocaine shipments concealed in shipping containers are rising at US ports, with traffickers exploiting record import volumes.

The US Drug Enforcement Administration says maritime container trafficking now accounts for a growing share of cocaine entering the United States.

Traffickers are hiding cocaine in legitimate cargo such as fruit, scrap metal, and machinery, often using corrupt port workers to bypass inspections.

Customs agencies are investing in scanner technology and data analytics, but the sheer volume of container traffic limits how many can be inspected.

Analysts say the shift to maritime routes reflects increased pressure on land borders and traditional air corridors.