India uncovers major drug-terror network linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba
Indian authorities uncovered a drug trafficking network smuggling heroin to fund Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Indian security authorities have uncovered a large-scale drug trafficking network with alleged links to terrorism, seizing nearly 2,988 kilograms of heroin smuggled from Afghanistan to the Mundra Port in Gujarat. Officials report that the operation was part of a broader effort to fund extremist activities.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced on Wednesday, April 23, that the proceeds from the seized heroin were intended to finance terrorist operations carried out by the group Lashkar-e-Taiba. The agency emphasized the cross-border dimensions of the case, describing it as a “narco-terrorism” network.
According to the NIA, the drugs entered India through Iran’s Bandar Abbas port, disguised as shipments of unprocessed stones and coal. Authorities said forged import documents were used to conceal the true nature of the cargo.
A protected witness revealed that Latif Rather, a now-deceased member of “The Resistance Front” — a Lashkar-e-Taiba affiliate — had coordinated with Afghan and Pakistani traffickers to channel funds for arms purchases. His involvement is seen as a key link between narcotics trade and militant financing.
In a troubling development, the NIA also reported that a key witness in the case — a retired customs officer — was found dead under suspicious circumstances after expressing willingness to cooperate with investigators. His death has raised concerns about the safety of informants in high-profile terror-linked cases.
Officials said that at least six similar consignments are believed to have entered India through the same network. Twelve suspects, including individuals from Iran, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Dubai, are currently under investigation or being pursued by authorities.
This case highlights growing concerns over the use of drug trafficking to finance terrorism in South Asia. Indian officials have called for greater regional cooperation and tighter port surveillance to prevent similar operations.
Security analysts warn that narco-terrorism poses a serious threat to national and regional stability, urging international collaboration to dismantle such transnational criminal networks.
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