Nigerian National Linked to $330m International Drug Trafficking Probe in India

A Nigerian national has been identified by Indian authorities as an alleged intermediary in an international drug trafficking investigation following the interception of an Iranian vessel carrying narcotics valued at more than $330 million.

The operation was conducted by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard on September 25 in the Arabian Sea.

Authorities reportedly recovered 526 kilograms of suspected narcotics from the vessel, comprising 400 kilograms of methamphetamine and 126 kilograms of heroin.

According to investigators, the Nigerian national allegedly served as a link between a wanted suspect based in Gujarat and other members of the suspected trafficking network.

Investigators were reportedly alerted after receiving intelligence about a meeting between the Nigerian and the wanted Gujarat-based suspect in Ahmedabad.

The information prompted the Gujarat ATS to alert the Indian Coast Guard, which subsequently intercepted the Iranian vessel in the Arabian Sea.

Five Pakistani nationals found aboard the vessel were arrested in connection with the operation.

Indian authorities allege that the suspected trafficking network is linked to Pakistan-based drug trafficker Haji Salim and had plans to transport the narcotics to Punjab for distribution across northern India.

Investigators also suspect that the drugs were to be transferred from the Iranian vessel to a fishing boat in Indian waters before being transported towards the Tamil Nadu coast.

The vessel was reportedly carrying a Starlink communication device, which investigators suspect may have been used to maintain contact with handlers based in Pakistan.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working to identify other suspected members of the network and determine the precise role allegedly played by the Nigerian national.

The allegations have not been established in court, and the investigation is continuing.