A Nigerian national has been connected to a major international drug trafficking network after authorities seized narcotics valued at more than $330 million (₹3,000 crore) from an Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) identified the Nigerian as a suspected intermediary linking a wanted Gujarat-based individual to other members of the network.
On 25 September, a joint operation by the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard recovered 526 kg of drugs—400 kg of methamphetamine and 126 kg of heroin. Intelligence about a planned meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad led the ATS to tip off the Coast Guard, which then intercepted the Iranian boat northwest of Lakshadweep.
Investigators allege the Nigerian is tied to a network linked to Pakistan-based drug trafficker Haji Salim. The group reportedly intended to move the consignment to Punjab for distribution across northern India. Plans involved transferring the drugs from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters, then onward to the Tamil Nadu coast before final delivery.
Five Pakistani nationals on board the vessel were arrested. The boat was also found carrying a Starlink device allegedly used to communicate with handlers in Pakistan. The Gujarat ATS continues to investigate the Nigerian’s exact role and other members of the alleged network.
Nigerian Linked to $330m Drug Trafficking Network After Major Arabian Sea Seizure
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