Intelligence tells us where and when to look. Without it, we cannot optimize our efforts. If we are to use our scarce patrol hours optimally, we need improved intelligence capabilities. To achieve this goal, we need increased support from the interagency community. In the local area, Activities San Diego has gained three Special Agents and one intelligence analyst in the past two years as a result of funding provided in fiscal year 1998.
Technology is yet another way to increase the effectiveness and employment of our assets.
The ability to monitor maritime activity covertly is absolutely essential in stemming the flow of illegal drugs through the transit zones of the eastern Pacific. Sadly, technology assists both law enforcement and smugglers. The threat of illegal drugs to America will become more difficult to counter as leading-edge equipment and technology are increasingly acquired by global and regional drug cartels and employed immediately after the technology becomes available. We must continue investing in research and development in order to keep up with the pace of drug smugglers. Conclusion Recent record cocaine seizures in the eastern Pacific indicate that drug traffickers are increasingly targeting southern California and the southwest border.