French authorities have successfully executed a major drug seizure, confiscating nearly five tonnes of cocaine from the MV Raider, a vessel intercepted in international waters. Reports indicate that the operation took place within French Polynesia’s maritime zone, with the estimated street value of the drugs hovering around USD 150 million.
Despite the significant amount of contraband, no legal action has been initiated against the crew or the vessel, which was permitted to depart from French Polynesia. Lead prosecutor Solène Belaouar emphasized that the Navy acted within its rights under Article 17 of the Vienna Convention to intercept ships on the high seas. However, she raised concerns about the need for a revised strategy to address the rising drug trafficking that, according to her, sees approximately 70 percent of cocaine transported via this route.
As the situation unfolded, the MV Raider was later spotted about 1,100 kilometers away in the Cook Islands, where it sent out a distress signal citing engine troubles. Customs officials confirmed that the vessel in distress was indeed the same one previously intercepted by French naval forces carrying the cocaine.
Constructed in 1991, the MV Raider holds a Provisional Certificate of Registry from the Togo Maritime Authority, issued only two months before the seizure. Maritime experts have warned that such provisional certifications may indicate involvement with the “dark fleet,” a term used for vessels that operate under loose regulations and frequently change registries to escape oversight.
The crew included ten Honduran nationals and one Ecuadorian, underscoring the intricate international dynamics at play in maritime drug trafficking. As authorities continue their investigations, this incident highlights the ongoing challenge of combating drug trade routes in the Pacific.
The seizure stands as a stark reminder of the persistent battle against drug trafficking in the region. It offers hope for future collaborative efforts and enhanced strategies among nations, potentially leading to a more effective combat against such illicit activities.