In a decisive move against criminal networks, the U.S. military conducted a kinetic strike on December 31, targeting two vessels linked to terrorist groups involved in drug trafficking, as announced by U.S. Southern Command on Wednesday. This operation resulted in the deaths of five individuals.

According to military officials, intelligence reports confirmed that these vessels were navigating well-known drug trafficking routes and were actively participating in narcotics transportation at the time of the military intervention.

The engagement led to the elimination of five individuals identified as narco-terrorists, with three fatalities occurring on one vessel and two on the other, as detailed by officials.

In a statement, USSOUTHCOM revealed that this strike was part of a broader initiative known as Operation Southern Spear, aimed at dismantling narco-terrorist operations in the region.

Accompanying the announcement, video footage of the operation was released, depicting the strike on one of the vessels at sea. However, military officials have not disclosed whether the video captures the entirety of the engagements or if there were additional actions beyond what was shown.

Video released of the operation shows a strike on a vessel at sea. Military officials did not clarify whether additional engagements occurred beyond those shown in the unclassified video.

Another strike was announced earlier in the day, but it is unclear if the two are linked at this time.

Video shows a kinetic strike on a narco-terror vessel in international waters Wednesday, Dec. 31. (U.S. Southern Command via X)

U.S. Southern Command did not provide any further comment to Fox News Digital at this time.