Venezuelan Armed Forces Deal Another Blow to Drug Trafficking
“With these actions, the total number of aircraft destroyed since 2012 reaches 421, and 30 during the year 2025,” the Bolivarian National Armed Forces detailed.
The aircraft were destroyed at the scene, along with other structures in the area, security officials said. Photo: FANB.
December 12, 2025 Hour: 10:53 pm
As part of Operation Vuelvan Caras 2025, the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) of Venezuela destroyed two aircraft linked to drug trafficking this Friday. The aircraft were found on an unauthorized airstrip that was part of a logistical camp used for drug transit in the Venezuelan state of Apure.
“Venezuela is a zone of peace, law, and justice where the scourge of drug trafficking is fought daily. We will not be a platform for transnational crime,” declared Venezuelan defense officials.
Security personnel detailed that defense missions and a unified command of the Venezuelan Armed Forces (FANB-OSC) were deployed against drug trafficking. “The aircraft were destroyed at the scene along with the structures present in the area,” they added.
“With these actions, the total number of aircraft destroyed since 2012 has reached 421, and 30 during 2025,” officials emphasized.
Recently, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello reported that 65,530 kilograms of drugs have been seized this year. “Our aviation colleagues have neutralized 418 aircraft in accordance with the Law for the Comprehensive Defense of Airspace,” he stated.
Furthermore, as part of Operation Catatumbo Lightning, the Venezuelan Territorial Defense System, in intelligence operations, destroyed three logistical centers used for drug trafficking and arrested four individuals linked to drug trafficking on December 9.
These actions reaffirm the commitment of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (FANB) to the defense of national sovereignty, the fight against drug trafficking, and the protection of the Venezuelan people against external threats, they stressed.
Telesur
