Porbandar, April 14: In a significant blow to transnational drug trafficking networks, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) in a joint overnight operation with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) seized over 300 kg of methamphetamine, estimated to be worth ₹1,800 crore.
The operation was carried out between April 12 and 13 off the North Maharashtra-South Gujarat coast near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
A Defence Spokesperson said, Acting on credible intelligence from Gujarat ATS, a Coast Guard ship deployed in the region was diverted to intercept a suspected transshipment at sea. “Sensing the approaching vessel, the suspect boat dumped its narcotics consignment into the sea and fled toward the IMBL”.
He said a high-speed chase ensued, but the suspect vessel managed to cross over the IMBL, escaping interception. However, the Coast Guard team deployed a sea-boat and, after an extensive search in challenging night conditions, successfully recovered the jettisoned narcotics.
The seized consignment has been brought to Porbandar for further investigation. Officials stated that the proximity of the IMBL and initial distance between the vessels gave the perpetrators just enough time to evade capture.
This joint operation marks the 13th such successful anti-drug operation in recent years between the ICG and Gujarat ATS, highlighting the growing synergy between maritime and land-based law enforcement agencies in securing India’s maritime borders against narco-terrorism.
Further investigations are underway to trace the source and intended recipients of the seized drugs.