HIGH-SEAS DRUG BUST
Run silent, run deep, run-down
Rusty semi-submersible had cocaine worth $352 million, Coast Guard says

By JOHN OTIS
South America Bureau

Cocaine-filled submarine stopped
BOGOTA, COLOMBIA � The drug cartels are taking trafficking to new depths.

The latest example is the seizure of a submarine-like vessel off the Pacific coast of El Salvador that was packed with 5.5 tons of cocaine worth $352 million. The craft was operated by four suspected smugglers, who sank the vessel shortly before they were arrested by U.S. Coast Guard officials.

"Sunk to new depths."

JAS