In a major blow to cross-border drug trafficking, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized 300 kg of methamphetamine, estimated to be worth ₹1,800 crore, during a joint operation near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea off the Gujarat coast.
The narcotics were allegedly smuggled from Pakistan and were dumped into the sea by smugglers aboard a fishing vessel after they noticed Indian patrol boats approaching. The smugglers fled into Pakistani waters to evade capture, officials said.
The consignment was successfully recovered and handed over to the ATS for further investigation. A senior ATS officer confirmed that the operation was launched based on intelligence inputs and swift coordination between agencies ensured the massive seizure.
Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi acknowledged the success of the operation in a post on X (formerly Twitter), praising the synergy between the agencies involved. “This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in combating drug smuggling, similar to previous joint operations by Indian Coast Guard, NCB, and ATS that have resulted in significant seizures,” he wrote.
The bust is part of an ongoing crackdown on narcotics trafficking along Gujarat’s 1,600-kilometre-long coastline, which remains vulnerable due to its proximity to international waters and its strategic location.
The authorities continue to monitor the maritime borders vigilantly, with increased surveillance and collaborative efforts aimed at disrupting smuggling networks and ensuring maritime security.
Sources By Agencies