Iranian Boat with 20 kg of Narcotics Seized in Caspian Sea, Two Crew Members Detained

On April 22, 2024, the Coast Guard of the State Border Service of Azerbaijan detained an Iranian boat carrying two crew members and 20.4 kilograms of marijuana in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. The border patrol spotted the unidentified watercraft heading southward near the settlement of Alat and initiated a pursuit operation, firing warning shots to stop the boat.

The detained individuals, identified as Iranian citizens Mukhtar Abdi Yalji (born in 1991) and Ali Bahrami Mohammad (born in 2000), allegedly threw eight bags containing the marijuana into the sea before their arrest. During the search of the liner-type watercraft, authorities discovered and seized the discarded packages of narcotics.

According to the Azerbaijani State Border Service, the Iranian citizens had violated the state border with the aim of illegally importing drugs into the country. The incident adds to the already complicated ties between Iran and Azerbaijan, as Iran has historically enjoyed warm relations with Armenia amid its territorial disputes with Azerbaijan.

Why this matters: The detention of the Iranian boat and crew members in Azerbaijani waters highlights the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Caspian Sea region. This incident may further strain the already complex diplomatic relations between Iran and Azerbaijan.

Operational-investigative activities are ongoing regarding the incident. The Azerbaijani authorities emphasize their commitment to maintaining border security and preventing illegal drug trafficking. "The State Border Service remains vigilant in protecting our borders and will continue to take necessary measures against those who attempt to engage in criminal activities," stated a representative of the agency.

Key Takeaways

• Azerbaijani border guards detained Iranian boat with 20.4 kg of marijuana in Caspian Sea.
• Two Iranian citizens arrested for attempting to illegally import drugs into Azerbaijan.
• Incident highlights efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Caspian Sea region.
• Detention may further strain diplomatic relations between Iran and Azerbaijan.
• Azerbaijani authorities vow to maintain border security and prevent illegal activities.