In one of its largest operations to date, the Pakistan Navy intercepted two vessels in the Arabian Sea carrying narcotics worth nearly $1 billion. Conducted under the Saudi-led Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), the operations were carried out within 48 hours, dealing a major blow to international drug smuggling networks operating through the region.
Two Swift Operations at Sea
The CMF announced that the Pakistan Navy conducted the twin operations last week, targeting two suspicious dhows in international waters of the Arabian Sea. Both vessels were intercepted in less than two days, reflecting the precision and readiness of naval forces monitoring smuggling routes.
According to the CMF statement released on Wednesday, the first operation took place on October 18. Navy commandos boarded the dhow and discovered over two tonnes of crystal methamphetamine (ICE), valued at approximately $822 million on the international market.
Less than 48 hours later, a second vessel was seized. This time, naval teams confiscated 350 kilograms of ICE valued at $140 million and 50 kilograms of cocaine worth $10 million. Combined, the two operations yielded narcotics with a total street value exceeding $972 million.
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International Collaboration and Strategic Support
The Pakistan Navy conducted these operations as part of the Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150), a key component of the CMF coalition. This task force focuses on countering terrorism and preventing smuggling across major sea routes in the Middle East, particularly the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.
Saudi Navy Commodore Fahad Aljoiad, who commands CTF-150, praised the operations, calling them “one of the most successful narcotics seizures in CMF history.” He credited the success to coordinated multinational efforts, emphasizing that teamwork across navies has strengthened maritime security.
“This operation reflects the importance of global maritime partnerships in combating transnational crime,” Aljoiad said. “Every successful seizure disrupts criminal supply chains and reduces illegal funding to terror networks.”
Anonymous Vessels, Unclear Origins
While the CMF did not specify the origin or destination of the seized dhows, it confirmed that both vessels were operating without a national flag. This classification designates them as stateless ships under international law, often used by smugglers to evade detection and avoid prosecution under any specific country’s jurisdiction.
Analysts believe the Arabian Sea remains a critical route for narcotics trafficking, connecting producers in South and Central Asia with markets in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. The recent operations underscore the growing role of the Pakistan Navy in securing international waters against organized crime.
Expanding Role of Pakistan Navy
The Pakistan Navy has increasingly strengthened its role in multinational maritime security over the past decade. As part of the CMF — a coalition of 47 member nations — it regularly contributes to patrols covering more than 3.2 million square miles of open sea, including some of the world’s busiest trade corridors.
The Arabian Sea, stretching from the Indian Ocean to the Persian Gulf, serves as a key route for commercial and energy shipments. However, its vastness also makes it an ideal channel for traffickers moving drugs, weapons, and other illicit goods.
By leading such high-value interceptions, Pakistan continues to demonstrate its operational capabilities and commitment to maritime security. These recent seizures not only safeguard its coastal regions but also contribute to international counter-narcotics efforts.
Major Blow to Smuggling Networks
Security experts say this bust will likely disrupt smuggling operations across the region for months. The magnitude of the seizure — close to $1 billion — indicates an organized syndicate behind the shipment. The use of multiple vessels suggests a well-planned trafficking route designed to minimize losses in case of detection.
The CMF’s latest success builds on a series of coordinated naval operations aimed at limiting illegal trafficking through international waters. Similar operations in recent years have intercepted shipments of heroin, hashish, and synthetic drugs bound for Africa and Europe.
Enhancing Maritime Surveillance
In addition to these operations, Pakistan has been expanding its surveillance and intelligence-sharing mechanisms with allied forces. This includes real-time tracking, satellite imagery, and drone surveillance to monitor unregistered vessels.
Officials involved in the operation said the drugs have been handed over to authorities for further investigation. Forensic teams are also analyzing materials found on board to trace the origin of the shipments and identify the criminal networks responsible.
The CMF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining security in the region, highlighting the need for continuous cooperation among member states. The organization’s efforts are focused not only on combating smuggling but also on promoting stability and ensuring freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most vital maritime zones.
A Strong Message to Traffickers
The success of the Pakistan Navy’s operations sends a clear message to international traffickers — that maritime routes in the Arabian Sea are being closely monitored. With improved coordination and intelligence, such networks face increasing risks of interception and financial loss.
As the CMF expands its presence and surveillance capacity, the Arabian Sea may no longer offer the safe passage smugglers once relied on. The nearly $1 billion drug haul stands as a testament to the growing effectiveness of multinational naval efforts in safeguarding global trade and combating organized crime.
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