Pakistan Navy Seizes Drugs Worth $96 Million in Arabian Sea Operations
The Pakistan Navy has seized narcotics estimated to be worth around $96 million during two counter-narcotics operations in the Arabian Sea, according to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
ISPR said Pakistan Navy Ship Yarmook carried out the operations at considerable distances from the Pakistani coast. During the missions, naval personnel intercepted two vessels and recovered a large quantity of drugs hidden in concealed compartments.
The seized contraband included approximately 850 kilograms of ice and 2,000 kilograms of hashish or cannabis.
According to ISPR, the recovered narcotics have been taken into custody and will be handed over to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings and disposal.
The military’s media wing said the operations demonstrated the Pakistan Navy’s continued vigilance and presence in the Arabian Sea, as well as its efforts to prevent illegal trafficking and support maritime security in the region.
President Asif Ali Zardari praised the Pakistan Navy for the successful operations and commended its efforts to prevent illegal activities at sea. He also appreciated the force’s continued readiness and vigilance against drug smuggling.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also congratulated the navy, describing the operations as successful and timely. He highlighted the navy’s contribution to maritime security and efforts to stop illegal activities in the region.
The latest seizures follow several major counter-narcotics operations by the Pakistan Navy in recent months.
In September, the navy seized narcotics estimated to be worth around $750 million during a joint operation in the Arabian Sea involving Pakistan Navy ships Hunain and Yarmook.
In June, naval personnel recovered about two tonnes of drugs near the Gwadar coastline, including 1,500kg of hashish and 500kg of ice. The international market value of the seized drugs was estimated at approximately $215 million.
In October last year, the Pakistan Navy also reported the seizure of narcotics valued at more than $972 million from sailboats operating in the Arabian Sea.
