Iranian sailing vessel intercepted with large drug cargo near Seychelles

16:15

Authorities in the Seychelles have intercepted and destroyed an Iranian sailing vessel carrying a large shipment of illegal narcotics during a coordinated maritime security operation in the Indian Ocean.

The operation was carried out by the Seychelles Defence Forces, in cooperation with the coast guard and air force, and supported by the French Navy as part of ongoing regional efforts to combat drug trafficking routes across the Indian Ocean.

According to official reports, the unflagged traditional vessel was detected during a surveillance mission within Seychelles’ maritime zone of interest. The patrol ship Andromache was deployed to intercept the dhow, which was successfully boarded on May 24, 2026.

Initial inspections revealed that the vessel and its eight crew members were of Iranian origin. A detailed search uncovered multiple concealed packages hidden in different compartments of the boat using methods commonly associated with drug smuggling operations.

Preliminary tests confirmed the presence of cocaine and opioids, with an estimated value exceeding 20 million euros. All eight crew members were arrested and transferred to authorities aboard the patrol vessel before being handed over to the Seychelles police for further investigation.

Following national procedures, the vessel and its illicit cargo were destroyed at sea.