Authorities in French Polynesia have seized nearly five tonnes of cocaine in the Pacific Ocean, stopping a major drug shipment from reaching Australia.

The interception involved about 4.87 tonnes of cocaine. The seizure took place on January 16, 2026, when a French Navy vessel intercepted a suspicious ship in the French Polynesia maritime zone.

After boarding the vessel, authorities found 96 packages containing cocaine, with a total weight of 4.87 tonnes.

Officials said the drugs originated in Central America and were being transported towards the southwest Pacific, with Australia believed to be the final destination.

Australian authorities welcomed the operation, stating that it prevented a large quantity of illicit drugs from entering Australian communities.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) said the seizure showed the importance of close cooperation with international law enforcement partners across the Pacific in tackling organised crime.

The AFP noted that officers posted across the Pacific, along with members of Taskforce Thunder, would work with French authorities to identify any individuals in Australia who may be linked to the shipment.

Taskforce Thunder was launched in October 2025 to strengthen cooperation with Pacific law enforcement agencies and target serious criminal activity.

The Australian Border Force (ABF) also praised the operation, saying that strong regional partnerships are Australia’s most effective defence against transnational organised crime.

French authorities confirmed that the operation was coordinated by the High Commissioner of the Republic in French Polynesia, who oversees state action at sea.

Officials said the cocaine shipment was not intended for French Polynesia but stated that the territory is now located on a major international drug trafficking route.

Reference: AFP