Authorities Seize 159 Kilograms of Cocaine in Suffolk, Virginia

Joint DEA, CBP and Suffolk Police investigation leads to major drug bust

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:57pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a small pile of white powder, conceptually representing the seized cocaine from the drug trafficking investigation.A major cocaine seizure highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the Hampton Roads region.Suffolk Today

Authorities in Suffolk, Virginia have seized 159 kilograms of cocaine worth approximately $6 million following a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Suffolk Police Department. The operation highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in disrupting complex drug trafficking networks.

Why it matters

This major cocaine seizure represents a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in the Hampton Roads region. The collaboration between federal and local law enforcement agencies demonstrates their commitment to safeguarding the community and disrupting the flow of dangerous narcotics.

The details

The 159 kilograms of cocaine were seized as part of a joint investigation conducted by the DEA Norfolk District Office, Suffolk Police Department, and CBP. The operation targeted a drug trafficking organization and resulted in the confiscation of a large quantity of the illicit substance before it could be distributed throughout the region.

  • The investigation and seizure operation took place in April 2026.

The players

DEA

The Drug Enforcement Administration, a federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States.

CBP

Customs and Border Protection, a federal law enforcement agency under the Department of Homeland Security that is responsible for regulating and facilitating international trade, collecting import duties, and enforcing U.S. regulations, including those related to drug trafficking.

Suffolk Police Department

The local law enforcement agency for the city of Suffolk, Virginia, which collaborated with federal agencies in this drug trafficking investigation and seizure operation.

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What they’re saying

“This investigation stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication demonstrated by DEA and its partner agencies, culminating in a significant victory against drug trafficking in the Hampton Roads community and beyond.”

— Christopher Goumenis, DEA Special Agent in Charge

“Customs and Border Protection officers remain committed to working with our law enforcement partners to stop the scourge of dangerous drugs from decimating our communities. This seizure should put drug trafficking organizations on notice that Hampton Roads is now a more difficult place for them to peddle their poison.”

— Keri Brady, CBP Area Port Director in Norfolk

What’s next

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to identify and dismantle the drug trafficking organization responsible for the shipment. The seized cocaine will be processed and destroyed.

The takeaway

This successful joint operation demonstrates the effectiveness of interagency cooperation in combating the complex and persistent issue of drug trafficking. By working together, federal and local law enforcement agencies can disrupt the supply chain and make it more difficult for criminal organizations to operate in the Hampton Roads region.