In a significant joint operation involving the Vanuatu Police Force, Department of Customs, and Department of Immigration, over 450 kilograms of cocaine were intercepted from the yacht Mi Amore on August 28, 2025. Internal Affairs Minister Andrew Solomon Napuat announced the arrest of three crew members, consisting of one Chinese national and two Turkish nationals, who are now in custody as investigations continue.
Minister Napuat revealed that the police and customs officials have collaborated with the Criminal Investigation Department to conduct initial inquiries and are seeking specialized support from the Australian Federal Police due to the sophisticated nature of the drug trafficking activity.
The operation was initiated after the vessel was spotted off the coast of Gaua on August 7, prompting residents to alert authorities. Following an investigation and subsequent checks at the Torba Provincial Government headquarters, police found hidden compartments aboard the yacht concealing the cocaine. The vessel and its occupants were then transported to Port Vila to aid further investigations.
This seizure represents the second major cocaine incident in Vanuatu’s history, reminiscent of a similar case in 2013 where a large stash was found on an abandoned vessel in Port Vila harbor. The successful interception highlights the commitments outlined in the Vanuatu Police Force’s 100-Day Plan, which aims to bolster maritime security by combating transnational crime.
Minister Napuat stressed the importance of community involvement in protecting the nation’s borders, urging citizens to report suspicious activities promptly as border security is a shared responsibility. He underscored the challenges facing Vanuatu and the wider Pacific region, emphasizing the necessity for vigilance to prevent the nation from becoming a conduit for illegal substances.
This effort underscores a broader regional struggle against drug trafficking, with neighboring countries such as Fiji also actively combating similar threats. For instance, Fiji has recently intercepted large quantities of methamphetamine and other illicit drugs, illustrating a continuing regional commitment to tackling drug-related crimes through collaborative law enforcement efforts.
The successful operation serves as a reminder of the effectiveness of international cooperation in combating the drug trade and the critical role of community awareness and engagement in border security initiatives.
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