SpaceX’s Starlink internet service has been linked to a surprising and controversial use: drug smugglers. A recent report from AFP revealed that Colombian authorities seized a semi-submersible watercraft that was equipped with a Starlink dish.
This vessel, typically used for smuggling drugs like cocaine, was found without any drugs on board, leading experts to speculate that it was merely being tested by smugglers before they loaded it with illicit cargo.
Starlink’s ability to provide near-global coverage with its low Earth orbit satellites has made it a popular choice among industries that rely on constant internet connectivity, such as cruise lines and commercial aviation. However, the satellite service’s wide availability has also made it attractive to criminal enterprises. Autonomous semi-submersible boats, which have become increasingly common in drug trafficking operations, require a stable internet connection to be piloted remotely, and Starlink offers just that with its low latency and high speeds.
The boat in question, capable of transporting up to 1.5 tons of drugs, was one of several vessels seized by the Colombian Navy in 2025. Although the ship was devoid of any drugs, its Starlink dish indicated the cartels were likely testing the boat’s operations. The dish’s quality remains uncertain due to the poor resolution of the images, but it appears to be one of the professional models.
SpaceX’s Starlink service is known for offering roaming capabilities, which allow users to maintain internet access even while in motion. However, the service’s terms of use prohibit it from being employed for illegal activities. Starlink explicitly warns that it may suspend or terminate accounts used for fraudulent or illegal purposes.
As authorities continue to uncover new methods of drug trafficking, the growing use of advanced technology like Starlink demonstrates how criminal organizations are adapting to technological advancements. While some of these activities might seem unconventional, they highlight a growing trend of utilizing cutting-edge tools for illicit purposes.