A Nigerian national has been linked to an international drug trafficking network following the seizure of narcotics worth more than $330 million in India.
The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad said the Nigerian allegedly acted as an intermediary between a wanted Gujarat-based suspect and other members of the network.
The seizure was made on September 25 during a joint operation involving the Gujarat ATS and the Indian Coast Guard. Authorities intercepted an Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea carrying 526 kilogrammes of narcotics, including 400 kilogrammes of methamphetamine and 126 kilogrammes of heroin.
Investigators said intelligence about a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad prompted authorities to alert the Coast Guard, leading to the interception of the vessel.
The network was allegedly associated with Pakistan-based suspected drug trafficker Haji Salim and was reportedly planning to transport the consignment to Punjab for distribution across northern India.
Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were arrested. Authorities also recovered a Starlink device, which investigators believe was used to communicate with handlers in Pakistan.
The Gujarat ATS said investigations were continuing to identify other members of the alleged network and determine the Nigerian’s specific role in the operation.
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