Third Major Cocaine Bust Near French Polynesia Signals Growing Narco-Sub Threat

French authorities have recently intercepted a third significant cocaine shipment near French Polynesia, contributing to a staggering total of 11.5 tonnes seized since the start of 2023. This latest operation, carried out in collaboration with the United States, involved the confiscation of 2.4 tonnes of cocaine hidden in 100 bales aboard a vessel.

This seizure adds to two other major interceptions in the past month alone. On February 2, French armed forces seized 4.24 tonnes of cocaine, and earlier in January, they intercepted 4.87 tonnes from the Australia-bound vessel MV Raider. The cumulative market value of these drugs is estimated at approximately $2.4 billion.

Following the seizure, French authorities destroyed the illegal cargo but permitted the vessel to continue its journey. While specifics about the latest ship—including its name, destination, flag state, or point of origin—were not disclosed, the ongoing operations highlight the persistent challenge of drug trafficking in the region.

Notably, concerns have grown as a suspected semi-submersible vessel, referred to as a narco sub, was discovered on a remote atoll in the Marshall Islands, located 5,000 kilometers northwest of French Polynesia. This find follows a similar incident last year when a comparable craft was found abandoned in the Solomon Islands.

The enforcement actions taken by French and U.S. authorities demonstrate a robust commitment to combating drug trafficking, reinforcing regional security efforts and highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing these critical issues.