Nigerian National Linked to $330M Drug Trafficking Network

A Nigerian national has been implicated in an international drug trafficking network after the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) linked him to a seizure of narcotics valued at over $330 million (Rs 3,000 crore) from an Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea. The operation, conducted on September 25 by the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard, resulted in the confiscation of 526kg of narcotics, including 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin.

Intelligence regarding a meeting between the Nigerian and a wanted Gujarat-based suspect in Ahmedabad led to the Coast Guard intercepting the Iranian boat. Investigators allege that the Nigerian is connected to a network associated with Pakistan-based drug trafficker Haji Salim, which intended to distribute the drugs across northern India, particularly Punjab.

The drugs were to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters before reaching the Tamil Nadu coast. Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were arrested, and investigations are ongoing to determine the Nigerian's specific role in the trafficking operation.