ATHENS, Jan. 15 (Xinhua) -- The tugboat Andreas, which was intercepted after a large-scale operation by Greek authorities on Dec. 6, 2017 off the coasts of the island of Crete, carried a total of over 12 tons of processed cannabis and 258,000 Captagon amphetamine tablets, it was announced here on Tuesday.

The total value of the above shipment was around 150 million euros (171.5 million U.S. dollars). The 12 tons of processed cannabis is the largest quantity confiscated in Greece to date, according to a press release by the Hellenic Coast Guard.

According to scientists, Captagon is a synthetic amphetamine with unique chemical complexities. This drug has been associated with Islamic State (ISIS) fighters in recent years. The vessel, which was kept in the port of Agia Galini in southern Crete, has been thoroughly examined over the past few weeks.

Initially, the authorities had found only about half of the drugs hidden in special compartments.

After an auction, the ship's new operators were about to transfer it from Crete to a British port for necessary repairs and conversions.

However, shortly before leaving Crete, the Drug Administration of the Hellenic Coast Guard was notified that another batch of drugs was found inside the ship.

The six crew members of the ship, all Syrian nationals, have been arrested. Enditem

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