In a major anti‑narcotics operation, the Indian Coast Guard, in coordination with the Gujarat ATS, seized 526 kg of high‑grade methamphetamine and heroin valued at over ₹3,000 crore from an Iranian boat in the Arabian Sea.
The operation, carried out near Lakshadweep on September 25, led to the detention of five Pakistani nationals who were operating the vessel. Officials said the contraband was hidden in the boat and was intercepted following precise intelligence inputs.
“This is one of the largest drug hauls in recent years, reflecting India’s strengthened maritime surveillance and commitment to combating international smuggling networks,” the Coast Guard said in a statement.
The seizure underscores the growing challenge of narco‑terrorism and cross‑border trafficking, with the Arabian Sea increasingly being used as a route for smuggling narcotics into South Asia. Authorities believe the drugs were intended for distribution across multiple countries, fueling both criminal and extremist networks.
Investigations are underway to trace the origins of the consignment and its intended recipients. The arrested crew members are being interrogated, and agencies are working to dismantle the wider network behind the smuggling attempt.
