A joint venture between the Dutch, Colombian and US military has resulted in the seizure of nearly 10 tonnes of cocaine in eight separate operations in the Caribbean, the Colombian navy said.

In total, 15 people were arrested. The drugs had a combined street value of €309 million and were destined for the European and the US market, officials say.

The biggest haul involved over five tonnes of cocaine intercepted in floating packages which had been dumped at sea for collection later. Four other seizures focused on high speed motorboats.

The Colombian navy says it has intercepted more than 109 tonnes of cocaine this year through international alliances. In total, the Dutch navy has been involved in seizures totalling 26 tonnes, according to a defence ministry overview.