ICG apprehends suspicious vessel involved in diesel smuggling off Mumbai Coast

Raju Vernekar

Mumbai: In a swift and coordinated maritime intelligence operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully intercepted a suspicious vessel suspected of illicit diesel smuggling off the coast of Mumbai on September 10, 2026 Thursday and recovered concealed cash and contraband.

 Acting on credible intelligence received at about 2.10 AM, about unauthorized activities near an offshore Oil Rig, ICG promptly diverted its Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel to investigate the area. Following a tactical approach, ICG intercepted and boarded the suspected vessel in the dark hours. A comprehensive search of the boat led to the discovery of illicit liquor and concealed, unaccounted cash amounting to approximately Rs10 lakh.

 The apprehended vessel, along with its six crew members and the confiscated items, was subsequently escorted to Mumbai Harbour. The crew and the vessel were handed over to the relevant authorities. A joint investigation involving multiple law enforcement and maritime stakeholders has been initiated to uncover the broader network behind the suspected smuggling operation.

 This successful operation underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s steadfast commitment to curbing smuggling and neutralizing illicit activities at sea, ensuring the continued safety, security and integrity of India’s maritime frontiers, an ICG spokesman said.

 In May 2024, the ICG had apprehended a fishing vessel “Aai Tuljai”, with four crew members onboard, about 27 nautical miles southwest of Mumbai and had recovered approximately 30,000 litres of illicit diesel, with an estimated value of  Rs 30 lakh. It was concealed within its fish holds. Besides a sum of Rs 1.75 lakh in unaccounted cash was confiscated. Interrogation of the arrested crew revealed their intent to peddle their illegal wares to unsuspecting fishermen.

 The apprehended vessel was escorted by ICG Interceptor Boat to the Mumbai Harbour and was handed over to the authorities of the Department of Customs for proper investigation and legal proceedings. Other Coastal Security Agencies, including the Police, Fisheries, and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, were also brought into the fold to ensure a comprehensive action against this maritime menace.

 The diesel siphoning primarily occurs in deep-sea anchorages, offshore oil fields (such as Mumbai High), and busy coastal hubs like Mazgaon, Navi Mumbai (Belapur), and Paradip. Because maritime fuel (often high-speed diesel or bunker oil) is highly valuable and heavily taxed, a lucrative black-market syndicate operates across the country’s coastlines.