RismadarVoice Reporters
October 2, 2026
A Nigerian national has been linked by Indian investigators to a suspected international drug trafficking network following the seizure of 526 kilograms of narcotics valued at more than $330 million from an Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad, working with the Indian Coast Guard and other security agencies, intercepted the vessel on September 25 following an intelligence-led operation.
Indian authorities said the seized consignment comprised about 400 kilograms of methamphetamine and 126 kilograms of heroin, with an estimated international market value of more than Rs3,000 crore.
Five Pakistani nationals aboard the Iranian vessel were arrested. Indian authorities said the vessel and seized substances were subsequently taken to Mumbai as investigations continued.
Information gathered by investigators before the interception pointed to a suspected international narcotics operation involving a Nigerian national and other individuals.
According to investigators, intelligence concerning the suspected network prompted surveillance of the vessel before it was intercepted west of the Lakshadweep Islands.
Authorities are investigating allegations that the Nigerian national was connected to individuals involved in arranging the movement and intended delivery of the consignment in India.
Investigators believe the narcotics were intended to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to another boat in Indian waters before being transported to the mainland.
The intercepted vessel was also found with a satellite communication device, which investigators are examining as part of efforts to establish communication links within the suspected trafficking network.
Indian authorities said investigations were continuing to identify the wider network, intended recipients of the seized narcotics and the roles allegedly played by individuals connected to the operation.
No finding of guilt has been made against the Nigerian national, and the allegations concerning the individual’s involvement remain subject to investigation.
