A Royal Navy warship, HMS Lancaster, has intercepted and seized a massive 1.5-tonne consignment of illegal drugs, estimated to be worth around £30 million, during an operation in the Arabian Sea.
The Portsmouth-based frigate, currently deployed on a mission in the Middle East, covertly tracked the suspect vessel for over 24 hours before launching its intervention.
The operation involved a highly skilled team of 42 Royal Marine commandos, supported by helicopters and Peregrine drones providing crucial live surveillance footage to coordinate the assault.
During the raid on the dhow vessel, authorities discovered 80 packages containing 1,000 kg of heroin, 660 kg of hashish, and 6 kg of amphetamine. Commander Chris Chew lauded the success, commending the 210-strong crew of HMS Lancaster for their exemplary work.
Minister for the Armed Forces, Luke Pollard, congratulated the crew on this significant seizure, highlighting its impact on the fight against illegal drugs and underscoring the Royal Navy’s vital role in ensuring regional stability.
HMS Lancaster, a Type 23 frigate, is part of the UK’s long-standing commitment to maritime security and stability in the Middle East.
In an unexpected turn of events during the operation, the crew also rescued orphaned kittens found sheltering under a shipping container.
