From Zeeshan Mirza
KARACHI: The Pakistan Navy has successfully conducted an anti-drug operation, seizing a significant haul of narcotics, including Indian-manufactured pills, media reported.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation in the Arabia Sea resulted in the confiscation of 2,000 kilograms of hashish, 370 kilograms of ice, and 50 kilograms of heroin, collectively valued at $145 million in the international market.
The seized drugs, which include a large quantity of prohibited Indian-made narcotics, have been handed over to the Anti-Narcotics Force for further action.
A spokesperson for the Navy stated that the Pakistan Navy remains vigilant and active in preventing all forms of illegal activities in the region’s maritime boundaries.
Last week, Pakistan Navy seized 1.3 tons of narcotics valued at approximately $26 million during a targeted operation in the North Arabian Sea, aimed at disrupting illicit maritime activities.
The operation, dubbed “Himalayan Spirit,” was carried out by the Pakistan Navy ship PNS Zulfiqar, part of a combined task force.
The operation was supported by the Pakistan Maritime Security Ship (PMSS) Kolachi, as well as the US Navy and US Coast Guard vessels operating in nearby waters.
“PNS Zulfiqar, while participating in Focused Operation Himalayan Spirit, successfully interdicted a vessel carrying 1.3 tons of hashish,” the navy said.
The operation also involved aerial surveillance provided by the Pakistan Navy and the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group.
The navy emphasised the success of the operation as a reflection of Pakistan’s commitment to ensuring peace and security at critical maritime chokepoints.
This follows a series of similar operations, including a June 2024 seizure of 389 kilograms of drugs and a May 2023 operation where over 4,000 kilograms of hashish were confiscated.
