Navy seizes $41 million of heroin

THE Australian Navy has seized 139kg of heroin worth an estimated $41 million during an operation off Africa's east coast.

It is the sixth major seizure in less than eight weeks.

The latest haul brings the Australian Navy's total seizures in the Middle East over the past two years to an estimated $2.3 billion.

Vice Admiral David Johnston said on Thursday the navy's contribution through Operation Manitou was testament to its focused training, professionalism and capability.

He said the latest haul was recovered during a routine boarding on July 3 when HMAS Newcastle intercepted a dhow and discovered the narcotics hidden on board.

"This year alone HMAS Newcastle has seized 1.4 tonnes of heroin valued at more than $413 million," he said.

"That is an extraordinary impact on the funding of terrorist organisations, which is where much of these illegal drug profits end up."