In a major maritime security operation, the Royal Navy frigate HMS Lancaster, operating under the New Zealand-led Combined Task Force 150 (CTF 150), has intercepted a significant shipment of illicit narcotics in the North Arabian Sea.
The seizure, made on 22 May, included over a tonne of heroin, 660 kilograms of hashish, and six kilograms of amphetamines — with an estimated street value exceeding $36 million.
The UK warship, deployed in support of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), tracked a suspicious vessel using onboard uncrewed aerial systems.
Royal Marine boarding teams launched from two sea boats and approached the target vessel under overwatch from a Wildcat WT2 helicopter, which carried a sniper team to provide aerial cover.
Once aboard, the marines discovered the contraband concealed in numerous packages. These were recovered, tested, and destroyed in accordance with maritime enforcement protocols.
“This is another example of where Lancaster has delivered at range, in isolation, utilising her own organic assets,” said Royal Navy Commander Chris Chew, Lancaster’s commanding officer.
“Whether through her Wildcat, UAS, intelligence team or Royal Marine boarding party, we continue to support the CMF mission.”
Commander of CTF 150, RNZN Commander Rodger Ward, praised the coordinated effort, saying: “This is a true team achievement — from headquarters planning in Bahrain to the ship’s company confronting smuggling operations at sea.
“The Lancaster crew should be proud of this blow against criminal and terrorist networks that fund their activities through narcotics.”
CTF 150 is one of five task forces operating under the CMF umbrella — the world’s largest naval partnership. Headquartered in Bahrain, CMF brings together 46 nations to promote maritime security across 3.2 million square miles of strategic waterways, including the Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.
HMS Lancaster, a Type 23 Duke-class frigate, remains on patrol in the region, providing maritime security and contributing to ongoing multinational efforts to keep vital trade routes safe from illicit trafficking and non-state threats.
Article courtesy Africa Ports & Ships.
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