The Pakistan Navy has seized narcotics worth approximately $96 million during two counter-narcotics operations in the Arabian Sea, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.

Around 850 kilograms of ice and 2,000 kilograms of hashish and cannabis were recovered from concealed compartments inside the vessels, according to the military’s media wing.

The seized drugs have been taken into custody and will be handed over to the relevant authorities for further disposal and legal proceedings.

ISPR said the operations demonstrated the Pakistan Navy’s continued surveillance and efforts to prevent illicit trafficking at sea and strengthen regional maritime security.

President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated the Navy and praised its vigilance and role in combating drug trafficking in maritime waters.

The latest seizure comes less than two weeks after Pakistan Navy ships reportedly intercepted more than 2,800 kg of narcotics valued at around $750 million in another Arabian Sea operation.