Nigerian Linked to $330m India Drug Bust as Alleged Trafficking Network Unravels

 A Nigerian national has been linked by Indian authorities to an alleged international drug trafficking network following the seizure of narcotics valued at more than $330 million in the Arabian Sea.

 The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) identified the Nigerian as an alleged intermediary between a wanted Gujarat-based suspect and other members of the trafficking 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 and recovered 526kg of narcotics, comprising approximately 400kg of methamphetamine and 126kg of heroin.

 According to investigators, intelligence concerning a meeting between the Nigerian national and the wanted suspect in Ahmedabad prompted authorities to alert the Coast Guard, which subsequently intercepted the vessel.

 Investigators allege that the Nigerian was connected to a network associated with Pakistan-based suspected drug trafficker Haji Salim.

 Authorities said the consignment was allegedly intended for distribution in northern India. The drugs were reportedly to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters before being transported towards the Tamil Nadu coast and onward to other destinations.

 Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were arrested during the operation.

 The intercepted vessel was also reportedly carrying a Starlink communication device, which investigators believe may have been used to communicate with handlers in Pakistan.

 The Gujarat ATS said investigations are continuing to establish the Nigerian national’s specific role and identify other individuals allegedly connected to the trafficking network.

 The allegations remain subject to investigation and any subsequent judicial proceedings.