A Nigerian national has been linked to an international drug trafficking network following the seizure of narcotics worth more than $330 million (Rs 3,000 crore) from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea.
The Nigerian was identified by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) as an alleged intermediary between a wanted Gujarat-based suspect and other members of the trafficking network.
The seizure, involving 526kg of narcotics comprising 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin, was made on September 25 during a joint operation by the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard.
According to reports, intelligence about a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad prompted the ATS to alert the Coast Guard, which subsequently intercepted the Iranian vessel.
Investigators alleged that the Nigerian was connected to a network associated with Pakistan-based suspected drug trafficker, Haji Salim.
The network allegedly planned to transport the consignment to Punjab for distribution across northern India.
The drugs were reportedly to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters before being taken to the Tamil Nadu coast and transported to their intended destinations.
Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were arrested during the operation, while investigations continued to identify other members of the alleged network and establish the Nigerian’s specific role in the trafficking operation.
The vessel, which was intercepted northwest of Lakshadweep, was reportedly carrying a Starlink device allegedly used to communicate with handlers in Pakistan.
The Gujarat ATS said its investigation into the suspected international drug trafficking network was ongoing.