French authorities seize 180 kg of cocaine on southern highway

French customs authorities have seized 180 kilograms of cocaine on the A7 highway in southern France, in an operation targeting suspected drug trafficking.

The seizure took place between Valence and Avignon, after officers became suspicious of several vehicles parked at a highway rest area, French media reports. 

All of the vehicles reportedly had Bulgarian license plates, prompting further inspection by customs officials.

During a search of one van, officers discovered more than 150 bricks of cocaine concealed in a specially equipped hidden compartment.

Following the operation, the case was handed over to OFAST in Lyon, which specialises in combating drug trafficking networks.

By Sabina Mammadli