A dhow sailing in the Indian Ocean has been closely monitored for several days and was carrying 1069 kilos of heroin in its hold.
Here is the press release from the prefecture of Reunion Island:
This Thursday, March 9, 2023, at daybreak, the overseas support and assistance vessel “Champlain” proceeded to control a dhow, the “Al Balal”, on the high seas. This vessel had been followed for several days. Its presence had been confirmed by a Seychelles Dornier flight.
In accordance with international law, a visit was carried out under the authority of the Prefect of La Réunion, the government delegate for State action at sea, and in close liaison with the judicial authorities. The investigations carried out with the help of a dog team led to the discovery of 25 suspect bales. The tests carried out by the visiting team of the “Champlain” confirmed that they contained 1069 kilos of heroin, which was immediately seized.
The Armed Forces in the Southern Indian Ocean Zone (FAZSOI) regularly conduct anti-narcotics operations in the maritime zone for which the Prefect is responsible, as the government delegate for state action at sea. These operations are aimed at combating the “primary flows”, i.e. the transport carried out “in bulk” near the production sites, before the product is cut and packaged for sale. They hinder the traffic channels and often achieve record catches.
With more than a ton of heroin seized and destined for destruction, this operation is a very significant blow to the criminal networks and once again sends a message of firmness and determination: France, at sea, contributes to regional stability and enforces the laws and regulations, by devoting all the necessary means.
