Collaboration Results in Meticulously Planned Operation at Sea, Apprehension of 14 Crew Members

In a meticulously planned anti-narcotics operation at sea, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in collaboration with the Anti-terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), seized 86 kilograms of narcotics valued at ₹600 crore from a Pakistani vessel on April 28, 2024. The operation, led by the ICG ship Rajratan, equipped with ATS and NCB officials, demonstrated exceptional coordination and determination in combating illicit drug trafficking.

Despite attempts to evade detection, the Rajratan positively identified the suspect boat, with a fleet of ships and aircraft providing crucial support. The swift and decisive response left no escape route for the drug-laden vessel. A specialist team from the Rajratan boarded the suspect boat and conducted thorough checks, confirming the presence of a substantial quantity of narcotics.

The apprehended crew members, totaling 14, along with the vessel, are currently being escorted to Porbandar for further investigation and legal proceedings. This successful operation underscores the effectiveness of joint efforts between the ICG, ATS, and NCB in curbing illicit activities at sea.

The collaborative approach between the ICG and ATS has yielded significant results, with this operation marking the eleventh successful law enforcement action in the past three years. This reaffirms the synergy between agencies in pursuit of national objectives and the commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime borders against threats such as drug trafficking.