Hlcopters photo by ©Hugo Ramos.
In a series of counter-drug operations with information shared between MAOC-N and the Marine Nationale (French Navy), two of its ships recently conducted three maritime operations on the Atlantic waters that resulting in the seizure of 7 tons of cocaine.
On February 20th, 2024, the surveillance frigate GERMINAL intercepted a fishing vessel flying the Panama flag approximately 1,100 nautical miles Southeast of Martinique. The seizure yielded over 3 tonnes of cocaine concealed within 137 bales.
Continuing their pursuit, the GERMINAL undertook another interception on February 22nd, this time engaging a Venezuelan-flagged fishing vessel situated approximately 830 nautical miles off the coast of Martinique. The operation culminated in the discovery and seizure of a little over 3 tonnes of cocaine concealed within 100 bales, further disrupting the flow of narcotics in the Atlantic waters.
On February 26th, 2024, the Patroller LA COMBATTANTE, another asset of the Marine Nationale, intercepted a Jersey-flagged sailing vessel carrying four crew members and 1 tonne of cocaine.
These decisive actions were initiated in response to a collaborative effort spearheaded by the French OFAST and DNRED, seeking support from the Marine Nationale based on intelligence shared through MAOC-N. The coordinated efforts, in conjunction with the UK authorities (NCA) and the US authorities (DEA), exemplify the effectiveness of international cooperation in dismantling organized crime networks.
The Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre—Narcotics
(MAOC-N) is an initiative by 6 EU Member States (France, Ireland, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands and Portugal) and the United Kingdom, co-funded by the Internal Security Fund of the European Union. The Centre provides a forum for multi-lateral cooperation, to tackle illicit drug trafficking by sea and air.
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