2.4 Tons of Cocaine Seized from Ship in the Pacific

Paris - French authorities seized 2.4 tons of cocaine from a ship in the Pacific during a joint operation with the United States, as interceptions in Polynesian waters continue to increase.

As reported by AFP on Sunday (2/15/2026), the seizure of 100 bales of narcotics took place on Thursday (2/12). The ship was allowed to continue its journey to an undisclosed destination.

“In accordance with applicable practices under international law, the vessel and its crew continued their voyage,” the High Commission in French Polynesia said in a statement.

The operation was conducted with “cooperation from US government agencies.” The statement did not mention the ship’s flag or point of origin.

Over the past month, French authorities have seized nearly 12 tons of cocaine around Polynesia. The seizures were made at three locations, each weighing between two and five tons.

The United Nations has stated that organized criminal groups trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine have expanded their presence in the Pacific in recent years. According to the UN, large quantities of drugs are transported from North and South America for the Australian and New Zealand markets.

In 2025, the French navy seized a record 87.6 tons of narcotics worldwide, including 58 tons of cocaine.