Royal Navy in cocaine drug bust

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The Royal Navy has carried out its fifth drugs bust in three months.

RFA Wave Ruler seized 2.9 tonnes of cocaine in a raid on the rogue Venezuelan-registered boat Oliana 1, some 620 nautical miles from Barbados.

The Royal Navy said the seizure made RFA Wave Ruler the "most successful" British drug ship of recent years.

Defence Secretary Des Browne said "dedication and skill" prevented a "staggering 11 tonnes of cocaine" from reaching the UK and Europe.

He said: "I am delighted to extend my thanks to the crew of RFA Wave Ruler.

"Once again, they have delivered a massive blow to the drug runners who profit from this awful trade."

During the raid, the flag-less boat was boarded by Wave Ruler's US Coast Guard detachment.

'Another successful seizure'

Despite the crew's claims to be engaged in fishing, bundles of cocaine rather than barrels of fish were found in the holds.

The crew were detained and later handed over with their contraband to the Venezuelan authorities.

"Wave Ruler's Commanding Officer, Captain Dale Worthington, who lives in Lancashire, said: "This is another successful seizure of a large amount of cocaine that was more than likely heading for Europe.

"I am proud that this capable ship has yet again helped stem the flow of this destructive drug onto our streets.

Meanwhile, BBC Chief Diplomatic Correspondent Paul Adams said: "The Navy has clearly had one of its best few months on counter narcotics.

"It probably testifies to improved intelligence-gathering, involving a number of countries."