Recently, Yemeni forces seized a ton of drugs from a boat during a maritime operation off the coast of Ras Al Arah near Bab al-Mandeb Strait.

The Bab al-Mandeb Strait is an important strategic shipping channel that connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Ad.

The drugs, which included methamphetamine (ice), hashish, and heroin, were reportedly hidden in the cargo hold and were destined for supply to nearby countries the region.

Official personnel tracked the smuggling vessel for several hours before intercepting it at a distance of 30 nautical miles from the shore. Security subdued the criminals and successfully seized the drugs, with no casualties reported in the process.

As part of the operation, four individuals were arrested and have been referred to relevant authorities for investigation, while the drugs were sent for forensic analysis.

One official described the operation as a significant victory in the fight against transnational crime networks and noted the for constant vigilance along Yemen's coastline. He added that the threat posed by drugs is no less than that of war, as they provide funding support to armed groups.

Analysts point out that criminal organizations are taking advantage of the heavy traffic of vessels through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the limited law enforcement capabilities in the region conduct illegal activities.

However, the Yemeni military has increased the frequency of its maritime patrols to combat the growing number of illegal maritime activities within its waters