A British Royal Navy warship has seized heroin worth over €10m while on patrol in the Gulf region.
The Royal Navy said it was the fifth major drugs seizure in three months for the destroyer HMS Dragon.
The ship seized the 49kg of heroin as she returned to maritime security operations on the “notorious drug smuggling route known as the ‘Hash Highway.’”
The Royal Navy said the sale of drugs is known source of funding for terrorist and criminal organisations.
Image: Royal Navy
UK Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Heroin destroys lives but, thanks to the tireless work of HMS Dragon’s crew, these criminals will not be distributing this poison and will instead face justice.”
“These drugs would have had a wide distribution network across the globe, highlighting exactly why we are committed to the region – because Gulf security is our security.”
Marines prepare to board a ship believed to be carrying heroin. Image: Royal NavyPilot Lieutenant Scott Sunderland of 815 Naval Air Squad said the ship was spotted using radar and after the drugs were found on board after 42 Commando Royal Marines boarded her.
Boarding officer Lt Lauren Williams said: “While the weather conditions were much more conducive to the search activity, the team worked hard over long hours to ensure that any concealed narcotics were found.
“The inventiveness of the drug runners necessitates a detailed search to ensure that we do not miss any potential hiding places.
"My team have gained significant experience and skills over the last four seizures and the success today is a reward for the hours of training that have been invested by all in ensuring that these operations are conducted successfully.”
HMS Dragon will continue its efforts to disrupt the flow of illicit narcotics in the region over the coming months.
Image: Royal Navy
