On Sunday, September 20, 2026, customs officials at Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport in France stopped two travelers who had arrived from Lima, Peru, and were heading to Madrid, Spain. During a routine inspection of their luggage, officials discovered 61 kilograms of coca leaves, a plant used in the production of cocaine. The coca leaf is illegal in France and throughout the European Union due to its association with drug manufacturing. The travelers were detained immediately after the discovery. Authorities are likely to investigate whether the individuals were aware of the contents of their luggage and whether they were involved in smuggling or drug trafficking. The seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by European customs to intercept narcotics at international entry points. Coca leaves are a key ingredient in the production of cocaine, a powerful stimulant drug that is illegal in most countries. While coca is legal in some South American nations like Peru, it is banned in the EU due to its potential for misuse. The smuggling of coca leaves across borders is a significant concern for law enforcement, as it can lead to the production and distribution of illegal drugs. This incident underscores the challenges faced by customs officials in monitoring international travelers, especially those coming from regions where coca cultivation is common. The French authorities have not yet released additional details about the individuals or the circumstances surrounding the discovery.