On September 29, 1985, the Rainbow Warrior II, accompanied by anti-nuclear demonstrators, arrived at Suva Harbour to protest the docking of a French research vessel. This launch, quickly named by members of the Fiji Anti-Nuclear Group (FANG), aimed to challenge the Jean Charcot after the Ports Authority of Fiji security prevented them from accessing the wharf.
Security measures were stringent, restricting even individuals with official permissions from reaching the wharf. The Fiji Times reported the presence of special branch police officers in the vicinity as PAF security turned people away. Some of these special branch officers were also aboard the Jean Charcot.
A reporter holding an official press pass was denied access to the wharf as well. PAF security officer Maikeli Rokovue stated that he had received specific instructions to deny entry to everyone.
Despite being turned away, four FANG members, led by Iliesa Duvuloco, continued their protest by hiring a small launch, which they temporarily named the Rainbow Warrior II. They managed to circumvent PAF security by approaching the Jean Charcot from the water. The protestors circled the vessel, chanting peace slogans and displaying placards that read “Stop Nuclear Testing in Pacific” and “Test in Paris.”
Duvuloco expressed concerns regarding the presence of a French vessel in Suva Harbour while Russian ships were prohibited from entering.