French Polynesian police seize 4.87 tonnes of cocaine reportedly bound for Australia

France's High Commission in French Polynesia has reported the seizure of 4.87 tonnes of cocaine in its maritime zone, reportedly bound for Australia.

The armed forces in French Polynesia (FAPF), the national gendarmerie (zhon·daa·muh·ree) and the local branch of the anti-narcotics office (OFAST) were involved in the intercept.

Gulf News reported the cocaine was being transported on a ship sailing under Togo's flag, according to a source close to the investigation.

Australian Federal Police (AFP) commander Stephen Jay said police staff posted in the Pacific and members of Taskforce Thunder would seek to work with French Polynesian authorities to identify those linked to the seizure.

Taskforce Thunder, launched in October, targets illicit commodities and the forced movement of people through the Pacific.

Commander Jay said the AFP was committed to working closely with its law enforcement partners to deliver maximum impact against transnational criminal syndicates targeting Australia, the Pacific and throughout Europe.

Source: ABC Pacific