They're doing full surveillance. They know who and what is in the boats before the boat ever leaves.
It's pretty much a declaration of the cartels as narco terrorists and taking them out in open waters.
I'm not sure I necessarily agree with it. I also admit that I don't necessarily have a better plan.
Does it possibly provoke the "politicians" in those countries, who are pretty much owned by the cartels? Probably. I don't necessarily buy that provoking them is the purpose.
Be honest with yourself and admit that the cartels are violent, and are not only importing drugs into the country, but are also invading the country in gangs and setting up distribution networks. They gladly kill anyone getting in their way.
Yeah, ending the demand would be a kinder, gentler solution.
Like I said, I'm not sure I agree with it. But I don't have a better, effective solution. I haven't seen anyone else with one, either.