French naval forces have intercepted nearly 10 tonnes of cocaine, valued at approximately $610 million (€570 million), from an unflagged fishing vessel off the coast of West Africa, authorities confirmed on Monday.
Two French warships carried out the operation, which marks one of the largest maritime drug seizures in recent years. The vessel, operating without national registration, was stopped in international waters and found to be carrying the illicit cargo concealed onboard.
The French Ministry of Armed Forces stated that the seizure was part of ongoing efforts to combat transnational narcotics trafficking, particularly along routes connecting South America to Europe via West Africa. The operation was coordinated with international partners and intelligence networks.
Officials have not disclosed the identities of the crew or the vessel’s point of origin, but investigations are underway to determine links to organized criminal networks. The intercepted drugs are believed to have been destined for European markets.
The seizure underscores growing concerns over the use of West African maritime corridors for large-scale drug smuggling and highlights France’s strategic role in regional maritime security.
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