Five U.S. Soldiers Held For Alleged Cocaine Smuggling

American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2005 – Five American soldiers were detained March 29 for allegedly participating in a cocaine smuggling scheme, according to a U.S. Southern Command news release.

The soldiers "are under investigation for allegedly attempting to transport approximately 16 kilograms of cocaine aboard a U.S. military aircraft," the release stated.

The servicemembers are in the United States and were detained as a result of investigations conducted in the U.S. and Colombia.

The American and Colombian governments are working together in investigating charges as part of the ongoing criminal investigation into the soldiers' activities, the release said.