DRUG BUSTING GRAFTON COMES HOME
Royal Navy News
10th December 2002
The frigate has spent the last four and-a-half months deployed in the Central and Eastern Caribbean patrolling as part of the UK's contribution to the international war against drugs. During this time she has steamed thousands of miles and prevented hundreds of millions of dollars worth of drugs reaching their intended destinations. In some of her most high profile events the warship seized £100m worth of cocaine in a single bust as well as confiscating over £11m worth of Marijuana following high speed chases against fast speed boats.
Grafton was also involved in two emergency life-saving rescues of distressed sailors during the deployment.
In August an American yachtsman was recovered onboard the warship to receive life-saving first aid after suffering serious lacerations. And at the beginning of November, a castaway who had been adrift at sea for 26 days was spotted by the warship and safely recovered.
In addition to active operations the warship has travelled the length and breadth of the Caribbean restoring and developing ties with many of the islands in the region. Throughout this time Grafton has been on permanent alert to assist with disaster relief in the event of natural catastrophes.
Grafton's Commanding Officer, Commander Richard Thomas (35), said: "The ship's company have been able to make a real difference during the course of this trip. We have physically prevented many millions of pounds worth of drugs reaching Europe and the UK and, by our presence, have deterred the traffic of even more. But beyond this we have actively demonstrated the UK's commitment to the region and reinforced the longstanding and close relationships that we have with many Caribbean countries. My team are now ready for some well earned leave with our families and loved ones before returning after Christmas ready and raring to go."
|
NEWSLETTER
|
| Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list |
|
|
|
