In a major joint operation between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Indian Navy, a staggering amount of drugs, suspected to be methamphetamine, was seized from a large vessel near the Kerala coast. The haul, weighing approximately 2,500 kg and valued at around ₹12,000 crore, marks the country's largest seizure of methamphetamine. The operation led to the detention of a Pakistani national after intercepting the vessel in Indian waters. NCB officials have initiated an investigation to identify the receivers of the consignment.
NCB's intelligence collaboration with the navy revealed information about a "mother ship" carrying a significant quantity of methamphetamine from the Makran coast near Pakistan and Iran. Detailed analysis and continuous intelligence gathering led to the identification of the probable route for the distribution of the contraband. Acting on this intelligence, the Indian Navy deployed a naval ship and successfully intercepted the large vessel. A total of 134 sacks containing suspected methamphetamine were seized.
During the operation, the Pakistani suspect attempted to escape on a speedboat but was intercepted by Indian Navy officials. The drugs were found concealed in rice bags falsely attributed to a rice company based in Pakistan. NCB officials are currently interrogating the suspect to gather more information about the drug trafficking network.
The operation, named Operation Samudragupt, forms part of the Union government's comprehensive strategy to combat drug smuggling and abuse, with the goal of making India drug-free by 2047. The NCB has been actively collaborating with various agencies and intelligence wings to collect actionable information and intercept narcotics shipments. Previous operations under Samudragupt have resulted in drug recoveries from the coast of Gujarat, with the source traced back to Afghanistan and Baluchistan.
The NCB's efforts extend beyond India's borders, as they have shared intelligence with the Sri Lankan navy and the Maldives police, leading to successful drug recoveries in those countries as well. With a total recovery of approximately 3,200 kg of methamphetamine, 500 kg of heroin, and 529 kg of hashish, the NCB's operations are making a significant impact in curbing drug trafficking.
The government's approach to combating drug cartels involves a holistic investigation from the origins to the destination of the contraband. By following the trail and dismantling the entire network, authorities aim to eradicate drug smuggling at its roots. This comprehensive strategy ensures that no isolated case goes unnoticed and that the battle against drug trafficking is fought from all angles.
As the fight against drugs intensifies, the Indian government remains committed to eliminating this menace by implementing stringent measures, sharing intelligence with international counterparts, and targeting drug cartels operating within and beyond the country's borders. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies and the deployment of sophisticated strategies will continue to play a pivotal role in creating a drug-free India.
