Within the framework of the Strategic Operation Bolivarian Shield “Independence 200”, the Bolivarian National Armed Forces (Fanb) dealt a new blow to drug trafficking structures.
Through reconnaissance and patrol work in the Pedro Camejo municipality of Apure state, the Comprehensive Aerospace Defense System detected and disabled a twin-engine aircraft that intended to violate territorial sovereignty. With this year-end operation, Venezuela reaches the figure of 40 disabled aircraft so far in 2025.
The Strategic Operational Commander of the Fanb, GJ Domingo Hernández Lárez, explained that the procedure was carried out after the detection of a white aerial vector, without identification letters or authorized flight plan.
Given the flagrant violation of air regulations, the Strategic Commander highlighted, the corresponding protocols were activated using the Sukhoi 30 weapons system, locating the unit in the vicinity of a forest in the border area.
With this action, Venezuela has 431 disabled drug trafficking aircraft since 2012.
Unrestricted adherence to the law
The military action was based on current operational procedures, stipulated in the National Security and Defense Law and the Control Law for the Comprehensive Defense of Airspace.
The aircraft was declared hostile for lacking transponder systems and official permits, therefore, the military body proceeded to completely destroy it on the ground to neutralize its use by groups that generate violence.
This action reaffirms the commitment of the State in the frontal fight against the scourge of drug trafficking, orders issued by the President of the Republic and commander in chief of the Fanb, Nicolás Maduro.
Maduro highlights the work of the Fanb against drug trafficking
This Monday, December 29, President Maduro highlighted this Monday the work carried out by Fanb against drug trafficking and criminal gangs. He applauded the work of the Bolivarian Military Aviation in neutralizing eight aircraft used by drug trafficking in the state of Amazonas and one in the state of Apure..
This Tuesday, the head of state highlighted that a world record has been established in the protection of his Sovereignty, by shooting down 9 aircraft linked to international drug trafficking in a period of just 24 hours.
«Nine ships in 24 hours. World record. Only Venezuela does it, with a vigilant Armed Force, grim and wearing its permanent campaign boots,” he emphasized.
Maduro extended special recognition to the heads of the Strategic Comprehensive Defense Region (Redi) and the Comprehensive Defense Operational Zone (Zodi), stressing that the country’s peace is sustained by the “professional strength of the Fanb and the mobilization of women militiamen.”
