Indian authorities have linked a Nigerian national to a suspected international drug trafficking network after an Iranian vessel carrying narcotics valued at over $330 million was intercepted in the Arabian Sea.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad, ATS, reportedly identified the Nigerian as an intermediary between a wanted suspect from Gujarat and other members of the alleged syndicate.
The link emerged following a joint operation by the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard on September 25, during which 526kg of narcotics was seized.
How $330m drug bust was uncovered
The consignment comprised 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin, with an estimated value of more than $330 million, about Rs 3,000 crore.
Investigators said the operation followed intelligence about a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted Gujarat-based suspect in Ahmedabad. The information prompted the ATS to alert the Coast Guard, which later intercepted the Iranian vessel.
The vessel was intercepted northwest of Lakshadweep. It was reportedly found with a Starlink device allegedly used to maintain communication with handlers based in Pakistan.
Five Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian vessel were arrested during the operation.
Nigerian link and alleged international network
Investigators alleged that the Nigerian has links to a trafficking network associated with Pakistan-based suspected drug trafficker Haji Salim.
The network allegedly planned to move the seized consignment to Punjab for distribution across northern India.
Investigators said the drugs were expected to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat within Indian waters before being taken towards the Tamil Nadu coast and moved to final destinations.
Authorities are working to identify other suspected members of the network and to establish the precise role of the Nigerian in the operation.
The Gujarat ATS said investigations into the suspected international drug trafficking network are ongoing.
.jpeg)
0 Comments