The Royal Navy has been helping clean up the world of illegal narcotics as HMS Montrose went after over one tonne of drugs.

The nine-hour operation was the second of its kind in the Middle East, where a team consisting of Royal Marines and sailors found 150 kilogrammes of heroin, 250 kilogrammes of meth, and 665 kilogrammes of hashish.

The impact of this win goes far beyond just drug abuse and addiction. It’s a well-known fact that narcotics are used to fund terror and criminal activities. Official estimates suggest that the destroyed substances were worth more than £8 million.

The frigate’s delighted Commanding Officer, Claire Thompson, said: “I am yet again incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication my crew continue to put into conducting these operations. Another large seizure of illegal drugs demonstrates our commitment to stopping the smuggling of narcotics, and having been joined by the National Crime Agency for the period, really demonstrates a collegiate approach to an international problem.”

The Montrose has been in Gulf waters for more than 1,000 days. It has been functioning out of Bahrain and has been helping keep security in check for the Middle East. This is the second operation where a multi-million-pound loss has been dealt to traffickers.

The current bust was a part of an international task force looking at anti-terror actions. Pakistani Navy commander Commodore Vaqar Muhammad said: “This seizure is a manifestation of the resolve and commitment of surface and air assets supporting CTF 150 to suppress and deter illicit activities at sea. Once again, the professionalism and dedication of HMS Montrose is commendable. CTF 150 continues to maintain a robust presence to support freedom of navigation to seafarers.” 

Commodore Adrian Fryer, UK Maritime Component Commander and the senior Royal Navy officer in the Middle East, added: “For the second time in ten days HMS Montrose, working together with our international partners, has seized a significant quantity of illegal drugs. This is another fantastic result and the whole ship’s company can be proud of what they have achieved.”

This is one more reason we love to support our soldiers! The risks that our military takes bear fruit not just for us at home, but for several of our allies and beyond. Issues like that of the illegal drug trade have far-reaching consequences for the world. This is just another example of how our men and women in uniform go the distance when it comes to their duties.