Digital News Guru Gujarat Desk:
Massive Drug Seizure off Gujarat Coast Highlights Growing Maritime Smuggling Threat
In a significant operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized over 300 kilograms of methamphetamine, valued at approximately Rs 1,800 crore, from the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast. The narcotics, suspected to have originated from Pakistan, were abandoned by smugglers who fled upon spotting the approaching ICG vessel. The consignment was recovered and handed over to the ATS for further investigation.
Details of the Operation
The joint operation took place on the night of April 12-13, 2025, near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between India and Pakistan. According to Gujarat ATS officials, the drugs were intended for distribution in Tamil Nadu. The smugglers, upon realizing they were being intercepted, discarded the contraband into the sea and fled toward Pakistani waters, evading capture.
The ICG, acting on intelligence from the ATS, deployed a sea boat to recover the dumped narcotics. The seized methamphetamine was found packed in blue barrels, designed to be waterproof and buoyant for later retrieval.
Suspected Smuggler and Modus Operandi
The operation unfolded near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea. Upon detecting a suspicious boat, the ICG approached, prompting the smugglers to jettison their narcotics into the sea and flee towards Pakistani waters. Despite pursuing the suspects, the ICG was unable to apprehend them due to the proximity of the IMBL. However, the discarded drugs were recovered after a thorough search.
This successful interception highlights the effective collaboration between India’s maritime and law enforcement agencies in combating international drug trafficking. The seized methamphetamine is a synthetic stimulant known for its high potential for abuse and addiction.
The Gujarat ATS is leading the investigation to trace the origins of the narcotics and dismantle the broader smuggling network involved. This incident underscores the challenges posed by Gujarat’s extensive coastline, which is susceptible to illicit activities due to its strategic location.
In a separate operation, the ICG apprehended an Indian fishing boat in the Bay of Bengal on April 10, 2025. The vessel was found transporting approximately 450 bags of betel nut, valued at nearly Rs 1 crore. The boat lacked valid registration, and the crew members were without mandatory identification documents, indicating potential unlawful activities.
Strategic Importance of Gujarat’s Coastline
Gujarat’s extensive 1,640-kilometer coastline, featuring remote creeks and inlets, makes it a vulnerable point for illicit maritime activities. Its proximity to the ‘Golden Crescent’—comprising Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, known for significant opium production—further exacerbates the risk of narcotics smuggling into India. The state’s strategic location necessitates enhanced surveillance and inter-agency cooperation to combat such threats effectively.
Implications and Future Outlook
This operation underscores the critical need for robust maritime security measures and international cooperation to tackle the growing menace of drug trafficking. The successful interception and seizure of such a substantial quantity of narcotics reflect the efficacy of coordinated efforts between Indian security agencies. Moving forward, it is imperative to strengthen intelligence-sharing networks, enhance patrolling capabilities, and foster regional collaborations to mitigate the risks posed by maritime drug smuggling.
Conclusion
In a significant operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) intercepted a substantial drug trafficking attempt off the Gujarat coast. On the night of April 12-13, 2025, they seized over 300 kilograms of methamphetamine, valued at approximately Rs 1,800 crore.
The Indian Coast Guard, in coordination with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad, seized over 300 kilograms of methamphetamine worth approximately Rs 1,800 crore in a high-seas operation. The operation targeted a vessel attempting to smuggle the narcotics from international waters into Gujarat. This significant bust underscores ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region.
You May Also Read: Delhi Crime Stats 2025: Numbers Down, Public Confidence Up
