The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in coordination with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has intercepted a suspected maritime narcotics smuggling operation in the Arabian Sea, leading to the arrest of five Pakistani nationals and the seizure of around 526 kg of contraband.
The seized drugs, comprising heroin and methamphetamine, have been valued at more than Rs 3,000 crore in international markets, according to the information released about the operation.
Operation based on intelligence inputs
According to the Coast Guard, the operation was conducted using sea and air surveillance supported by actionable intelligence.
The ICG tracked the suspected vessel before launching a hot pursuit. The forces subsequently intercepted and boarded a suspicious Iranian dhow on September 25 in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep.
Five Pakistani nationals were taken into custody during the operation.
526 Kg of heroin and methamphetamine seized
The operation resulted in the recovery of approximately 526 kg of high-grade contraband, identified as comprising heroin and methamphetamine.
The estimated international market value of the seized drugs is more than Rs 3,000 crore.
Following the interception, the dhow, its crew and the seized contraband were escorted under armed security to Mumbai, where they are expected to undergo joint interrogation and further legal proceedings involving multiple agencies.
Coast guard highlights maritime surveillance
The Coast Guard said the operation demonstrated its maritime surveillance and interception capabilities and reiterated its stated focus on preventing illicit activities in India’s maritime domain.
The agency also linked the operation to the Centre’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, which seeks to address drug abuse through awareness, capacity building and rehabilitation.
The Coast Guard said intercepting narcotics shipments before they reach the mainland can disrupt the financial networks involved in international drug trafficking.
Multi-agency probe underway
The arrested individuals, intercepted vessel and seized contraband have been brought to Mumbai for further investigation.
Authorities are expected to examine the origin and intended destination of the consignment, the identities and roles of those involved, and the wider network allegedly connected to the maritime smuggling operation.
Further details are expected as the multi-agency investigation progresses.
