The Pakistan Navy, part of the Saudi-led Combined Task Force 150, has confiscated narcotics valued at over $972 million in the Arabian Sea during a special operation known as Focused Operation AL MASMAK.

In just 48 hours, the Pakistan navy ship Yarmook conducted boarding actions on two dhows. Neither of the boats was broadcasting on the Automatic Identification System or had any visible markings, and both were found to be stateless.

On October 18, the first dhow was boarded, resulting in the capture of more than two tons of crystal methamphetamine estimated to be worth $822.4 million. Within 48 hours, the team boarded a second dhow, seizing 350 kg of methamphetamine valued at $140 million and 50 kg of cocaine worth $10 million.

The seized drugs were brought back to the ship for testing to identify their contents before being safely disposed of.

“The success of this focused operation shows the strength of international teamwork,” said Commodore Fahad Aljoiad, the commander of CTF 150. “The PNS Yarmook has achieved one of the most significant drug seizures for the Combined Maritime Forces, thanks to the expertise and cooperation of our naval forces.”

Focused Operation AL MASMAK started on October 16 and showcased a united multinational effort to improve regional security and maritime safety, with Saudi Arabia leading the collaboration involving naval forces from Pakistan, France, Spain, and the U.S.

CTF 150 aims to deter and disrupt the activities of non-state groups that trade weapons, drugs, and other illegal goods in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Gulf of Oman.

The Combined Maritime Forces is a coalition of 47 nations working together to uphold international maritime laws and promote security and stability across an area of 3.2 million square miles, which includes some of the world's busiest shipping routes.