Huge Victory for Pakistan Navy. Over $972 Million Worth of Narcotics Confiscated in Arabian Sea

Pakistan Navy Seizes $972 Million Worth of Narcotics in Major Arabian Sea Operation

In a massive blow to international drug trafficking networks, Pakistan Navy ship PNS Yarmook intercepted two narcotics-laden sailboats in the Arabian Sea, seizing illegal substances valued at over $972 million, officials confirmed on Wednesday.

According to a statement from the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) — a multinational naval coalition that includes the United States — the Pakistani vessel conducted the successful raids while operating under the Saudi-led Combined Task Force (CTF-150) as part of Operation Al Masmak, launched on October 16.

Within a span of just 48 hours, PNS Yarmook boarded two separate dhow vessels suspected of smuggling narcotics. On October 18, the crew discovered more than two tons of crystal methamphetamine estimated at $822 million in street value. Shortly after, another search led to the recovery of 350 kilograms of methamphetamine worth $140 million and 50 kilograms of cocaine valued at $10 million.

The confiscated drugs were brought aboard for chemical testing before being safely destroyed, the statement added. The intercepted boats were found to be without any national identification, with authorities refraining from disclosing their point of origin.

Royal Saudi Naval Forces Commodore Fahad Aljoiad, commander of the CMF taskforce, hailed the mission as “one of the most successful narcotics seizures in CMF history,” emphasizing that the operation underscores the power of international maritime cooperation in combating illicit trafficking.

In a separate statement, the Pakistan Navy lauded the achievement as a reflection of its unwavering commitment to maritime security, regional stability, and global peace. It reaffirmed Pakistan’s active participation as a responsible naval partner ensuring safety across the Indian Ocean region.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf commended the PNS Yarmook crew for their professionalism and dedication, reaffirming the Navy’s mission to protect national maritime interests through coordinated global efforts. He also noted that Pakistan’s collaboration under the Saudi-led task force would strengthen interoperability between the two countries’ naval forces and deepen bilateral defence cooperation.

President Asif Ali Zardari also praised the operation, describing it as a source of national pride and professional excellence, and applauded the Navy’s role in maintaining peace and security across regional waters.