Gujarat: In a joint operation involving the teams of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the Indian Navy and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) have busted an international syndicate of drug trafficking and arrested five crew members involved with the seizer of a staggering 3,300 kg off the coast of Gujarat.
The agencies estimated the drugs seized from the crew members have been valued at over Rs 2000 crore in the international market, this marks the largest narcotics seizure ever recorded in the Indian subcontinent.
Acting on a tip-off provided by a surveillance aircraft, an Indian Navy vessel intercepted a suspicious boat entering Indian territorial waters. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered a significant haul of narcotics, including 3,089 kg of cannabis, 158 kg of methamphetamine, and 25 kg of morphine, all originating from Pakistan.
The five crew members onboard the vessel were arrested, and both the boat and the drugs were seized.
This operation, conducted over two days at sea, concluded with the suspects, drugs, and vessel being brought to Porbandar, Gujarat, for further investigation.
Authorities are diligently investigating the identities of the Pakistani crew members and tracing the source and intended destination of the seized narcotics.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah appreciated the law enforcement agencies involved, highlighting the government’s steadfast commitment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a drug-free India.
“This is now realistic that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a drug-free India is on our agencies today achieved the grand success of making the biggest offshore seizure of drugs in the nation. In a joint operation carried out by the NCB, the navy and the Gujarat Police, a gigantic consignment of 3132 drugs was seized,” Union Home Minister Amit Shah said.
“The historic success is a testament to our government’s unwavering commitment to making our nation drug-free. On this occasion, I congratulate the NCB, the Navy, and the Gujarat Police” Shah added.
The successful operation underscores the Indian Navy’s track record in combating drug trafficking at sea and reinforces the nation’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug trade and safeguard its borders.
