Porbandar, Gujarat – In a major anti-drug operation, a joint team comprising the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the Indian Navy, and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) seized a massive consignment of 700 kilograms of methamphetamine off the Porbandar coast. Eight foreign nationals were apprehended during the high-stakes operation, marking a significant blow to international drug trafficking networks.
The Operation
The operation, conducted late on Thursday, was the result of meticulous intelligence gathering and coordination between multiple agencies. Officials tracked the suspicious vessel in the Arabian Sea for several days before intercepting it. The seized contraband is estimated to have a street value of over ₹3,500 crore, making it one of the largest methamphetamine hauls in recent history.
NCB Director General S.N. Pradhan praised the teamwork and precision that led to the bust. “This operation demonstrates our collective commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring national security,” he said.
Arrests and Interrogations
The eight arrested individuals, believed to be foreign nationals, are suspected to be part of a larger international drug syndicate. Preliminary investigations suggest that the drugs were being smuggled from Afghanistan, a known hotspot for methamphetamine production, to be distributed across South Asia and beyond.
The detainees are being interrogated by the Gujarat ATS and NCB officials, who aim to uncover further details about the trafficking network and its connections to organized crime.
Significance of the Seizure
The massive drug haul underscores the increasing use of maritime routes for narcotics smuggling. Experts believe this seizure will disrupt the operations of drug cartels in the region, sending a strong message about India’s vigilance and enforcement capabilities.
The Indian Navy’s role in providing maritime surveillance and support was critical to the operation’s success. A Navy spokesperson stated, “This interception highlights the importance of inter-agency coordination to safeguard our coastal borders.”
Government’s Stance on Narcotics
The Indian government has been ramping up efforts to combat drug trafficking through initiatives like enhanced coastal security, international collaborations, and stricter anti-narcotics laws. Gujarat, due to its extensive coastline, has often been targeted by traffickers, but joint operations like this demonstrate the state’s resolve in tackling the menace.
Conclusion
The seizure of 700 kg of methamphetamine off the Porbandar coast is a significant achievement in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking. As agencies continue to investigate and dismantle networks, the operation serves as a testament to India’s zero-tolerance approach to narcotics.
