20 Filipino seafarers investigated in SK over massive cocaine haul

Twenty Filipino seafarers, including the captain, are under investigation in South Korea after approximately two tons of cocaine were discovered aboard their ship, the Norwegian-flagged M/V Lunita.

This seizure is reportedly South Korea's largest drug bust to date.

The cocaine was found in the engine room of the vessel, concealed in 57 boxes.

The ship reportedly sailed from South America, making stops in Mexico, Ecuador, Panama, and China before arriving at the port of Okgye.

The seizure was a result of a joint operation by the Korea Coast Guard and Seoul Regional Customs Office, following intelligence from US agencies including the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed the crew's nationality and detention.

The ship owner has provided the seafarers with a lawyer, and the DMW is sending another lawyer to join their defense team.

The seafarers will continue receiving their salaries during the investigation, according to assurances from their manning agency.