In a landmark operation that highlights the power of international cooperation and technological support in maritime security, French Customs officers in Nouméa, New Caledonia, have carried out the largest-ever tobacco seizure on French national territory.
On Wednesday, 5 February 2025, officers from the Nouméa Customs Brigade boarded and searched the Tanzanian-flagged bulk carrier “Kokoo”, which had arrived in port from Taiwan. The operation resulted in the discovery of 75.8 tonnes of contraband cigarettes, concealed across five containers. The illicit cargo, valued at 4.131 billion Pacific francs—approximately €34.6 million at market rate—represents the equivalent of one year’s worth of cigarette consumptionin New Caledonia.
This exceptional operation was made possible thanks to the close coordination of multiple national and regional entities, including the:
- Customs Intelligence Unit
- Maritime Information Fusion Centre (CFIM) of the Maritime Zone Commander (CZM)
- Armed Forces in New Caledonia (FANC)
IORIS at the heart of a multi-agency operation
Crucially, the success of this high-stakes operation was underpinned by the use of the IORIS platform.
IORIS played a central role in:
- Monitoring the movements of the vessel in real time;
- Facilitating secure information exchange between agencies;
By providing a shared situational picture and enabling seamless communication, IORIS ensured that the various stakeholders involved in the operation—customs, military, port authorities, and intelligence services—were aligned throughout every phase of the intervention.
This seizure marks a significant milestone in the global fight against illicit trade and highlights the increasing sophistication of smuggling networks that operate across maritime domains. It also reflects the growing capability and agility of French and regional authorities to respond effectively, thanks in part to modern digital platforms like IORIS and a strong spirit of interagency cooperation.
Such a high-value operation demonstrates the importance of:
- Early intelligence sharing and coordinated maritime surveillance;
- Cross-border operational planning;
- Real-time coordination during vessel boarding and inspection;
- Post-seizure reporting and evidence management.
Celebrating operational excellence
The exceptional professionalism and vigilance of the customs officers involved, combined with strong institutional collaboration and technological support, have led to a decisive victory against international smuggling networks.
A heartfelt congratulations to all the agencies and personnel who played a part in this remarkable operation. Their commitment and coordination serve as a powerful example of how modern tools and teamwork can deliver results in the complex maritime domain.
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