$30M Cocaine Bust in Cancún Airport Private Jet

Cancún, Mexico — Federal authorities confiscated a substantial shipment of cocaine hidden inside a private aircraft at Cancún International Airport, marking one of the largest drug seizures in the region this year. The operation, conducted by the Mexican Army and the National Guard, uncovered 132 packages of the illicit substance with an estimated street value exceeding $30 million.

Coordinated Operation Leads to Major Bust

The discovery occurred during a routine inspection of a Learjet 45 aircraft with registration XA-VMC, which had arrived from Toluca, State of Mexico. Military personnel and law enforcement officers detected irregularities in the plane’s cargo hold, prompting a thorough search.

Upon inspection, authorities found 132 rectangular packages wrapped in adhesive tape and concealed within the aircraft’s structure. Preliminary tests confirmed the contents as cocaine, weighing approximately 150 kilograms (330 pounds).

Suspects Detained, Investigation Ongoing

Two individuals aboard the jet—identified only as the pilot and co-pilot—were taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have not yet released their identities pending further investigation. The Attorney General’s Office (FGR) has assumed control of the case, with plans to pursue charges related to drug trafficking and organized crime.

The seized narcotics and aircraft were handed over to the FGR for evidentiary processing. Officials emphasized that the operation underscores ongoing efforts to combat drug cartels exploiting air transport routes.

A Growing Trend in Aerial Drug Smuggling

Cancún International Airport has increasingly become a focal point for drug interdiction efforts. In recent years, authorities have intercepted multiple shipments of cocaine, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances aboard both commercial and private flights.

This latest seizure follows a similar incident in March 2023, when federal agents recovered 90 kilograms of cocaine from another private plane at the same airport. Analysts suggest criminal organizations are leveraging Cancún’s status as a major travel hub to smuggle narcotics into international markets.

Government Vows Continued Crackdown

In a statement, the Secretariat of National Defense (SEDENA) reaffirmed its commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks operating in Mexico’s transportation infrastructure. "This seizure demonstrates the effectiveness of our surveillance and inspection protocols," the agency said. "We will continue to target all avenues used by organized crime."

The investigation remains active, with authorities examining potential ties between the detained crew members and larger criminal syndicates.