ICG interdicts transnational syndicate with record Rs 3000 crore Narcotics seizure

By Raju Vernekar

Mumbai: In a swift and decisive maritime interdiction striking at the heart of transnational narco-terrorism networks, Indian Coast Guard (ICG) operating in seamless tactical synergy with the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), Gujarat, successfully neutralized a major maritime narcotics smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep and seized drugs worth Rs 3000 crore.

 As per the official communication of ICG issued on September 30, Wednesday, executing precise sea-air surveillance based on actionable intelligence, the ICG assets maintained unyielding tracking before initiating hot pursuit, neutralizing the target, and boarding a suspicious Iranian dhow on September 25, 2026.

The high-seas operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 526 kilograms of high-grade contraband—comprising heroin and methamphetamine—valued at over Rs 3,000 crore in international markets, alongside the swift apprehension of five Pakistani nationals operating the vessel. The intercepted dhow, crew, and seized contraband was escorted under armed escort to Mumbai for joint interrogation and comprehensive multi-agency legal proceedings.

This operational success exemplifies the ICG’s unyielding maritime dominance, robust surveillance grid, and resolute commitment to maintaining zero tolerance against illicit activities within India’s sovereign waters and extended maritime zones. By crippling the financial engine of hostile foreign syndicates and intercepting toxic synthetic substances before they reach mainland shores, this mission serves as a critical force multiplier to the Union Government’s national vision of a “Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan”.

The ICG remains fully postured to defend the nation’s sea borders, shield the country’s youth from the scourge of drugs, and uphold absolute security across the maritime domain, ICG CPRO Commandant Amit Uniyal stated in a press release.