The Dutch navy ship Sr.Ms. Friesland, based in Den Helder, intercepted a vessel carrying 4,200 kilos of drugs in the Caribbean Sea on October 31, together with the United States and Caribbean Coast Guards. A patrol aircraft from the Caribbean Coast Guard first spotted the suspicious vessel. After it ignored repeated orders to stop and warning shots, the Friesland deployed two fast interceptor boats, enabling the US Coast Guard to board the vessel.

The drugs and suspects have since been transferred to the US Coast Guard. The number and nationalities of the suspects remain unknown. The Friesland has been stationed in the Caribbean since September, where it also helps detect and intercept drug shipments and remains available for humanitarian assistance after natural disasters such as hurricanes.