In a significant blow to drug trafficking operations, a collaborative effort between the Operations Branch of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Headquarters, the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) of Gujarat Police, and the Indian Coast Guard culminated in the interception and seizure of a foreign boat carrying approximately 86 kilograms of heroin and methamphetamine. The operation, codenamed “SAGARMANTHAN-III,” marks yet another milestone in the ongoing battle to stem the flow of narcotics into the country.
The intelligence for this operation was derived from a confidential source, prompting swift action from the ATS Gujarat Police. The information indicated the imminent arrival of a foreign vessel in Indian waters, laden with over 100 kilograms of illicit substances and manned by 10-15 foreign nationals. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, a joint task force was promptly assembled, comprising personnel from the NCB Operations unit, ATS Gujarat, and the Indian Coast Guard.
As the operation unfolded, teams from Gujarat ATS boarded an Indian Coast Guard vessel and set course for the designated rendezvous point. In the early hours of April 26, 2024, the suspected vessel was intercepted in the waters west of Porbandar. Simultaneously, the joint team, aided by another Coast Guard vessel, closed in on the target.
Anti #Narco #Operations @IndiaCoastGuard Ship Rajratan with #ATS #Gujarat & #NCB @narcoticsbureau in an overnight sea – air coordinated joint ops apprehends #Pakistani boat in Arabian Sea, West of #Porbandar with 14 Pak crew & @86 Kg contraband worth approx ₹ 600Cr in… pic.twitter.com/N49LfrYLzz
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) April 28, 2024
With precision and coordination, all occupants of the vessel were apprehended, along with their illicit cargo. A subsequent test conducted by the NCB at the port of Porbandar confirmed the presence of heroin and methamphetamine in the seized substances. Notably, among those detained were 14 Pakistani nationals, underscoring the transnational nature of the illicit drug trade.
The successful outcome of “SAGARMANTHAN-III” represents the culmination of rigorous planning and seamless inter-agency cooperation. This operation follows in the footsteps of two previous maritime enendeavours “SAGARMANTHAN-I” and “SAGARMANTHAN-II,” which resulted in the seizure of 3300 kilograms and 62 kilograms of narcotics, respectively. Collectively, these operations have dealt a severe blow to the drug trafficking networks operating in the region.
As seizure formalities continue, authorities remain vigilant against the ever-evolving tactics employed by drug smugglers. The collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, both domestic and international, underscore the collective resolve to safeguard our communities from the scourge of narcotics.
In the relentless pursuit of a drug-free Bharat, these joint operations serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment of our law enforcement agencies. Through continued vigilance and cooperation, we remain steadfast in our mission to uphold the rule of law and protect our citizens from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.
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