The United States has imposed sanctions on a network linked to Ecuadorian groups Los Choneros and Los Lobos, which are designated as foreign terrorist organizations. The action targets 15 individuals, entities, and 10 vessels allegedly involved in a maritime cocaine trafficking operation.
According to the Treasury Department, this network utilizes fishing vessels based in Manta, Ecuador, to transport large quantities of cocaine each month. These vessels reportedly provide logistical support, refueling, and resupply for fast boats moving the drugs north through the Pacific Ocean toward Mexico. Mexican cartels, including the Sinaloa cartel and Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, later distribute the cocaine in the U.S.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized the ongoing efforts to disrupt the cartels’ operations in coordination with law enforcement. Among those sanctioned are members of the Mero family, associated with the fishing company Arcasdenoe S.A., who facilitated the transportation of cocaine.
The sanctions extend to 10 vessels used for logistical cover and cocaine transport. This action builds upon previous measures by the State Department and Treasury, following the terrorist designation of Los Choneros and Los Lobos, and actions against CJNG.
Operation Pacific Viper, led by the U.S. Coast Guard and launched in August 2025, has seized over 225,000 pounds of cocaine in the eastern Pacific. Under the new sanctions, U.S.-based assets of the designated individuals and entities are frozen, with restrictions on U.S. business dealings with them.
Treasury warns that violations of these sanctions can lead to civil or criminal penalties, and foreign financial institutions facilitating transactions face secondary sanctions. Nearly 30 actions targeting cartel networks have been initiated since early 2025, reflecting coordination among U.S. agencies such as the DEA and the Coast Guard.
The trafficking operations are said to generate billions annually for cartels responsible for fatal drugs impacting American communities. The State Department asserts that measures will continue to dismantle cartels benefiting from American casualties.
Earlier this year, U.S. commandos collaborated with Ecuadorian troops to tackle a suspected criminal hub linked to Los Choneros. Los Lobos was identified in 2024 as Ecuador’s largest drug trafficking network, significantly contributing to violence in the nation.