Argentinian authorities have uncovered 469.5 kg of high-purity cocaine aboard the Ceci, a bulk carrier preparing to depart San Lorenzo port for Amsterdam. The ship’s cook was arrested after admitting involvement in the smuggling plot.

On April 29, the vessel’s captain reported suspicious packages found in the ship’s cold storage, prompting a large-scale inspection involving sniffer dogs, financial intelligence officials (UIF), and the coast guard. The Ceci, flying the Marshall Islands flag and managed by a Greek firm, was carrying 46,000 tons of sunflower meal and had previously called at ports in the UAE, Iran, and Uruguay.

Authorities discovered 16 waterproof packages containing 379 cocaine bricks, some hidden in freezers and crew lockers. The parcels bore crown symbols, indicating a link to organized crime groups. This significant seizure underscores ongoing risks in global supply chains and the need for heightened port security and vigilance.