Saudi-Led Combined Task Force 150 and Pakistan Navy Interdict Over $972 Million Worth of Illicit Drugs in Arabian Sea

The operation enhances regional maritime security and builds on prior interdictions, including a $120 million seizure on September 28.

ARABIAN SEA — The Pakistan Navy Ship Yarmook conducted boarding operations on two stateless dhows in support of the Saudi-led Combined Task Force 150 over a 48-hour period, concluding on October 19, 2025.

The mission, part of Focused Operation AL MASMAK, resulted in the seizure of narcotics totaling $972.4 million, aimed at disrupting illicit activities by non-state actors. Both dhows exhibited no nationality markings and failed to transmit via the Automatic Identification System, indicating potential evasion tactics.

This operation reflects strong multinational cooperation among Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, France, Spain, and the United States, with Royal Saudi Naval Forces Commodore Fahad S. Al Joaid providing leadership. The success enhances regional maritime security and builds on prior interdictions, including a $120 million seizure on September 28.

The initial boarding on October 18, 2025, led to the confiscation of over two tons of crystal methamphetamine, valued at $822.4 million, with onboard testing verifying the substance before disposal.

Less than 48 hours later, a second operation recovered 350 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine worth $140 million and 50 kilograms of cocaine assessed at $10 million. These seizures illustrate the extensive drug trafficking networks operating within the region.