Europe 'Literally Flooded With Cocaine' as Sophisticated Narco-Subs Evade Detection on Transatlantic Routes

European authorities warn that a rising tide of cocaine is slipping across the Atlantic in a variety of platforms — from cargo ships and high-speed boats to increasingly sophisticated, low-cost semi-submersible "narco-subs." Artur Vaz, head of Portugal's narcotics police, told reporters that "Europe is literally being flooded with cocaine," underscoring the scale and profitability of the trade.

How Narco-Subs Work

Semi-submersible vessels travel with most of their hull below the waterline, leaving only a small conning structure visible. Researchers say many are painted in muted blues and grays to blend with the North Atlantic swell and to reduce detection by radar and aerial surveillance. Built cheaply and used for one-way voyages, these craft are designed to minimize detection risk while maximizing cargo capacity.

Recent Seizure And Enforcement Challenges

Portuguese authorities recorded a high-profile interception this autumn, seizing a narco-sub in the mid-Atlantic that carried about 1.7 metric tons of cocaine. Still, law enforcement sources across Europe acknowledge that many such vessels reach shore undetected. Honduras-based investigative reporter Sam Woolston estimates interdiction rates at roughly 5–10%, meaning the vast majority of narco-subs likely slip through.

"The interdiction rates for these subs is between 10%, roughly, and maybe as low as 5%," said Sam Woolston, who specializes in organized crime. "Even if one or two get nabbed by the authorities, it's not enough to dissuade them."

Different Tactics, Shared Goals

European nations typically opt to seize vessels and detain low-level crew for interrogation rather than destroy suspect boats — a contrast with some U.S. operations that have at times used more aggressive tactics at sea. European officials say arrests and intelligence-gathering can yield leads on networks, kingpins and distribution channels, but many also call for stronger maritime capabilities.

"We must be more muscular — that is, with greater means and a greater capacity for intervention," Vaz said, adding that any expanded operations must remain "within the rule of law." Former acting DEA official Derek Maltz described the craft's evolution as "mind-boggling," noting traffickers are taking greater risks to move product to lucrative markets.

The Human Cost

Investigators describe the crews of narco-subs as often being desperate individuals packed into tiny, hazardous compartments for days, exposed to diesel fumes and extreme conditions. There have been cases in which crews were found dead inside these craft. Journalists and officials stress that the organizers — the kingpins — rarely board these voyages themselves.

As traffickers adapt, authorities in Europe and beyond face a difficult choice: expand maritime interdiction and surveillance while protecting legal norms and human rights, or continue relying on arrests and intelligence operations that sometimes capture only a small fraction of shipments. The debate over tactics and resources is likely to intensify as narco-subs continue to appear on transatlantic routes.