The US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) announced the attack on Sunday, targeting a vessel operating on a known drug smuggling route, though no evidence of illicit cargo was provided. SOUTHCOM stated that it had notified the US Coast Guard of 'six male survivors' but gave no details on their condition or rescue operations.
This is the latest strike in the 'Southern Spear' campaign launched by the US in September, raising the total number of boats sunk to over 60, with more than 210 people killed. A black-and-white video released by SOUTHCOM shows the vessel hit by gunfire and erupting in flames.
US President Donald Trump has described the nation as being in an 'armed conflict' with Latin American cartels, arguing the attacks are necessary to reduce drug-related deaths. However, critics question the legal basis and effectiveness, noting that most fentanyl entering the US is smuggled overland from Mexico.
In June, US Central Command reported finding two survivors in a similar attack. The Coast Guard later suspended the search, stating there was 'no indication of survivors or debris.'
Last week, US lawmakers demanded the Pentagon release 'unedited video' of the first attack in the campaign, following reports that the US had conducted an additional strike against survivors. Two men initially survived the attack that killed nine, but they died when the boat was fired upon a second time. The White House described these strikes as 'self-defense' and compliant with armed conflict law, but some legal scholars argue the action was illegal.
In May, the Pentagon's Inspector General announced a review to determine whether the military followed standard targeting procedures, but not to assess the legality of the strikes.
