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

A Nigerian national has been identified as an alleged link to an international drug trafficking network following the interception of an Iranian vessel carrying narcotics valued at more than $330 million (Rs 3,000 crore) in the Arabian Sea.

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad, ATS, reportedly identified the Nigerian as an intermediary between a wanted suspect from Gujarat and other members of the alleged trafficking syndicate.

Authorities seized 526kg of narcotics during a joint operation involving the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard on September 25. The consignment comprised 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin.

According to reports, the investigation was triggered by intelligence concerning a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted Gujarat-based suspect in Ahmedabad. The information prompted the ATS to alert the Coast Guard, which later intercepted the Iranian vessel.

Investigators alleged that the Nigerian had links to a trafficking network associated with Pakistan-based suspected drug trafficker Haji Salim.

The network was allegedly planning to move the seized consignment to Punjab for distribution across northern India. Investigators said the drugs were expected to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat within Indian waters before being taken towards the Tamil Nadu coast and moved to their final destinations.

Five Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian vessel were arrested during the operation. Authorities have continued investigating the case to identify other suspected members of the network and determine the Nigerian’s precise involvement in the operation.

The vessel, intercepted northwest of Lakshadweep, was also reportedly found with a Starlink device allegedly used to maintain communication with handlers based in Pakistan.

The Gujarat ATS said investigations into the suspected international drug trafficking network remained ongoing.