The Pakistan Navy has carried out one of its largest anti-narcotics operations, seizing drugs worth over $972 million from two sailboats in the Arabian Sea. The operation took place under the Combined Maritime Force (CMF) network, according to a statement released on Wednesday.
The CMF, a multinational naval partnership including the United States, reported that the Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) Yarmook intercepted two separate dhow sailing boats within 48 hours last week. The mission was part of Saudi-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 during Operation Al Masmak, launched on October 16.
During the first interception on October 18, the Navy crew seized over two tons of crystal methamphetamine, valued at approximately $822 million. Less than two days later, the team boarded another dhow and recovered 350 kilograms of crystal meth worth $140 million and 50 kilograms of cocaine valued at $10 million. The seized drugs were tested, verified, and subsequently disposed of, the CMF confirmed.
The vessels were identified as stateless, and their origin remains unclear. Royal Saudi Naval Forces Commodore Fahad Aljoiad hailed the operation as “one of the most successful narcotics seizures for CMF,” emphasizing the strength of international cooperation in maritime security.
In its official statement, the Pakistan Navy described the operation as proof of its “unwavering commitment to regional maritime security, global peace, and the fight against illicit trafficking.” Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf congratulated the PNS Yarmook crew for their professionalism and dedication, reaffirming the Navy’s mission to safeguard national interests and enhance global maritime collaboration.
He added that the operation under the Saudi-led task force will “further strengthen interoperability and defence cooperation” between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
President Asif Ali Zardari also praised the achievement, calling it a symbol of “national pride and professional excellence.”
The US Central Command commended the Combined Maritime Force, which includes 47 nations and patrols over three million square miles of ocean to prevent smuggling and piracy.
Commissioned in 2020, PNS Yarmook is a state-of-the-art electronic warfare, anti-ship, and anti-air platform. It can perform multiple maritime and aerial operations simultaneously. The ship has previously participated in rescue and patrol missions, showcasing its versatility and strategic importance in the region.
The latest operation reaffirms the Pakistan Navy’s vital role in ensuring security, peace, and stability across the wider Indian Ocean region.
In other news also read about Indian Air Force Instructors to Train UK’s Royal Air Force Pilots in New Defence Partnership
