India: Nigerian linked to international drug network after $330m seizure

A Nigerian national has been linked to an international drug trafficking network after a massive $330 million drug haul was seized in the Arabian Sea. The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) identified the suspect as an intermediary between a wanted individual from Gujarat and other members of the alleged syndicate.

On September 25, authorities intercepted an Iranian vessel carrying 526kg of narcotics, including 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin. The operation, conducted jointly by the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard, was prompted by intelligence regarding a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad. The ATS alerted the Coast Guard, leading to the seizure of the consignment.

Investigators believe the Nigerian had ties to a network associated with a Pakistan-based drug trafficker, Haji Salim. The plan was to transport the seized drugs to Punjab for distribution across northern India. The drugs were reportedly intended to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat within Indian waters before being moved towards the Tamil Nadu coast and their final destinations.

Five Pakistani nationals were arrested during the operation. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify other suspected members of the network and determine the Nigerian's exact role in the operation. The intercepted vessel, found northwest of Lakshadweep, also contained a Starlink device allegedly used for communication with handlers based in Pakistan. The Gujarat ATS stated that the investigation into the suspected international drug trafficking network remains ongoing.