Large amounts of drugs are transported from North and South America ( Latin America ) for Australian and New Zealand markets, according to the UN.

PAPEETE, France — French authorities said  they had seized 2.4 tonnes of cocaine from a vessel in the Pacific during a joint operation with the United States, as officials step up interceptions in Polynesian waters. The seizure of 100 bales of the drug took place on Thursday, and the vessel was allowed to continue on to its destination, which officials did not specify.

Requirements the operation 

The operation involved significant human and material resources from the French armed forces in French Polynesia, in close coordination with the National Gendarmerie, and the French anti-drug office and the cooperation of US government agencies. Since the beginning of the year, French authorities seized at sea in total 11.5 tons of narcotics.

French Polynesia statement

“In accordance with practices applicable under international law… the vessel and its crew resumed their voyage,” the High Commission in French Polynesia said in a statement. It added that the operation was carried out with “the cooperation of US government agencies”

Related : US Coast Guard, Navy Seize Nearly 1,300 Pounds of Cocaine

The United Nations

Over the past month, French authorities have seized nearly 12 tonnes of cocaine around Polynesia, including three that were between two and five tonnes each. The United Nations has said in recent years that organised criminal groups trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine have expanded their presence in the Pacific. It is noteworthy that a global reference on drug markets, trends and policy developments, the World Drug Report offers a wealth of data and analysis and in 2025 comprises several elements tailored to different audiences.  

Latin America is the main source of drugs

Meanwhile large amounts of drugs are transported from North and South America ( Latin America ) for Australian and New Zealand markets, according to the UN. In 2025, the French navy seized a record 87.6 tonnes of drugs worldwide, including 58 tonnes of cocaine. 

Related : USCG Cutter Stone Sets New Record for Cocaine Busts in One Deployment

source : Agencies 

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