PAPEETE, Feb 15, 2026 (BSS/AFP) - French authorities said Saturday 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. "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. 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. In 2025, the French navy seized a record 87.6 tonnes of drugs worldwide, including 58 tonnes of cocaine.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha February 15, 2026 03:19 UTC