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Royal Marine Sniper Halts £35M Drug Smuggling Operation

10/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Royal Marine sniper halted a drug-smuggling operation in the Gulf of Oman by disabling a boat's engine with a single Wildcat helicopter shot.
The operation, launched from HMS Lancaster, led to the seizure of over £35 million of narcotics, including 1.5 tonnes of heroin and crystal methamphetamine.
Armed Forces Minister Al Carns praised the operation for its precision and effectiveness.

History

Historical Context

Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the U.S. initiated Operation Enduring Freedom to combat terrorism and drug trafficking in Afghanistan. Since then, the UK’s Royal Navy, including HMS Lancaster, has seized over £35 million in narcotics, underscoring ongoing efforts against drug smuggling in the Gulf of Oman, a vital route for traffickers, and highlighting international military collaboration in addressing global drug trade challenges.

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Story summary

A Royal Marine sniper halted a drug-smuggling operation in the Gulf of Oman by disabling a boat's engine with a single Wildcat helicopter shot.
The operation, launched from HMS Lancaster, led to the seizure of over £35 million of narcotics, including 1.5 tonnes of heroin and crystal methamphetamine.
Armed Forces Minister Al Carns praised the operation for its precision and effectiveness.

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