Authorities in Yemen have intercepted a vessel carrying nearly one ton of narcotics off the coast near the Bab-al-Mandab Strait, a crucial maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The operation, conducted by Yemeni security forces in coordination with regional patrol units, led to the arrest of four individuals aboard the vessel. Officials reported that the seized contraband included over 500 packages of crystal meth (“shabu”), 100 bags of hashish, and 10 bags of heroin.

According to initial investigations, the narcotics were allegedly being smuggled through the waters of Lahj Governorate — particularly the Al-Madhariba and Ras al-Ara districts — areas known for recent smuggling activity. Authorities believe the shipment was intended for international trafficking networks operating across the Red Sea corridor.

“This is one of the largest narcotics seizures in recent months,” said a Yemeni official, describing it as proof of “increasingly organized drug-smuggling operations” in areas influenced by armed groups.

The Bab-al-Mandab Strait, often referred to as the “Gate of Tears,” remains a volatile maritime zone, with frequent reports of piracy, arms trafficking, and drug smuggling. The interception underscores renewed efforts by regional authorities to secure one of the world’s most strategic shipping lanes.

The confiscated narcotics have been turned over to Yemen’s anti-narcotics division for documentation and destruction, while investigations continue to identify the network behind the shipment.