The French Navy has intercepted a vessel, carrying nearly five tonnes of cocaine, in the South Pacific. Officials described the operation as a record drug seizure for the region.
The operation took place on January 16 in waters off French Polynesia, where French forces stopped a Togo-flagged fishing vessel arriving from Central America. A total of 4.87 tonnes of cocaine was found on board. Investigators believe the shipment was intended for the Australian market.
According to French authorities, substantial naval and air assets were deployed during the interception, including a military helicopter used to secure the vessel and its cargo at sea.
The crew – ten Honduran nationals and one Ecuadorian – will not face prosecution in France. However, officials said their home countries retain the right to initiate legal proceedings.
