Pakistani Navy sailors search a suspected drug-laden dhow in the Arabian Sea. Photo: INP
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan Navy ship TABUK carried out a major counter-narcotics operation, seizing over 2,000 kilograms of methamphetamine (ICE) from a stateless dhow in the Arabian Sea, according to a statement by Director General Public Relations (Navy) on Wednesday.
The statement said PNS TABUK was operating as part of a Regional Maritime Security Patrol (RMSP) in support of the Saudi-led Combined Task Force 150 (CTF-150) under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). The operation marks the “third consecutive successful interdiction” carried out by Pakistan Navy vessels in the last two months.
The intercepted dhow was deemed suspicious and the ICE transport has an estimated regional wholesale value of $130 million, the press release states.
“These successful operations demonstrate the enduring resolve and unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Navy against illicit trafficking at sea. The scale of the operation, coupled with its flawless execution, highlights not only the professionalism of the Navy but also the effectiveness of multinational coordination under the CMF,” the statement said.
The statement added that the Pakistan Navy remains committed to safeguarding national maritime interests, respecting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and contributing to global maritime security.
(With contribution from APP)
