Ahmedabad, September 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in coordination with Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), has busted a major maritime narcotics smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, seizing 526 kg of high-grade contraband valued at over Rs 3,000 crore in international markets and apprehending five Pakistani nationals, officials said.
According to the ICG, the operation was conducted on September 25, west of Lakshadweep, following actionable intelligence about a suspected maritime smuggling attempt.
In a statement, the Coast Guard said its assets carried out coordinated sea-air surveillance, tracked the suspicious vessel and launched a hot pursuit before intercepting and boarding an Iranian dhow.
The operation led to the seizure of approximately 526 kg of narcotics, comprising heroin and methamphetamine, with an estimated international market value of more than Rs 3,000 crore. Five Pakistani nationals operating the vessel were also apprehended.
The intercepted dhow, its crew and the seized contraband have been escorted under armed protection to Mumbai for joint interrogation and multi-agency legal proceedings, the ICG said.
The Coast Guard described the operation as a coordinated effort against transnational narcotics smuggling networks, highlighting the role of intelligence-led surveillance and cooperation with Gujarat ATS in intercepting the vessel.
The ICG said the seizure was aimed at disrupting the financial networks behind illicit maritime activities and preventing narcotics from reaching mainland India.
The operation, it added, reflects the Coast Guard’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s maritime boundaries and supporting the Union government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan.
The Coast Guard said it remains committed to preventing illicit activities in India’s sovereign waters and extended maritime zones and protecting the country’s youth from drug-related harm.
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