U.S. Forces Intercept Fifth Venezuelan Oil Tanker

In a strategic operation, the U.S. Armed Forces have intercepted a fifth oil tanker tied to Venezuela in the Caribbean, an act confirmed by the U.S. Southern Command last Friday.

According to two U.S. officials who spoke to CBS News, the Olina oil tanker is currently being seized by the U.S. Coast Guard, with assistance from the Navy.

The U.S. Southern Command released a statement emphasizing its rigorous enforcement, declaring, 'Yet again, our united interagency teams conveyed a powerful message today: criminals will find no refuge here.'

In a coordinated pre-dawn mission, personnel from Joint Task Force Southern Spear, in concert with the Department of Homeland Security, mobilized from a U.S. naval vessel to carry out the operation.

Control Over Oil Revenue

U.S. officials have articulated plans to administer funds derived from the sale of seized Venezuelan oil, in addition to the potential capture of further vessels connected to the country.