A Nigerian national has been linked to an alleged international drug trafficking network following the seizure of narcotics worth more than $330m from an Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) identified the Nigerian as an alleged intermediary between a wanted Gujarat-based suspect and other members of the trafficking network.
The seizure was made on September 25 during a joint operation involving the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard.
Authorities recovered 526kg of narcotics, comprising 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin, from the vessel, which was intercepted northwest of Lakshadweep.
According to investigators, intelligence concerning a meeting between the Nigerian national and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad prompted the ATS to alert the Coast Guard, leading to the interception of the Iranian boat.
Investigators further alleged that the Nigerian was connected to a wider trafficking network reportedly 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.
The drugs were reportedly intended to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters before being transported towards the Tamil Nadu coast and subsequently moved to their final destinations.
Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were arrested during the operation.
Authorities also reportedly found a Starlink device on the vessel, which investigators believe was being used to communicate with handlers in Pakistan.
The Gujarat ATS said investigations were continuing to identify other members of the alleged international network and determine the Nigerian national’s specific role in the trafficking operation.
