In a high-risk maritime interception near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) off the Porbandar coast, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard seized 203 kg of suspected narcotic chemicals and arrested two Iranian nationals. The February 16 operation is being viewed as a major blow to a transnational drug trafficking network stretching from Iran to India’s hinterland.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a Coast Guard multi-mission vessel was diverted from routine patrol and placed on interception duty. Radar surveillance detected a suspicious foreign fishing craft exhibiting evasive manoeuvres. As enforcement units closed in, the vessel accelerated toward the IMBL—an established tactic used by smugglers to escape Indian jurisdiction.
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After a high-speed pursuit in deep-sea conditions, the boat was cornered and stopped at around 8 am. A search led to the detention of two Balochi-speaking Iranian nationals, identified as Abdul Majeed and Abdul Sattar. Officers recovered 203 sealed packets containing chemical material suspected to be either high-grade narcotics or precursor substances used in large-scale drug production.
Iran-to-Punjab supply route under probe
Preliminary investigation indicates that the consignment was loaded at Konark port in Iran by an alleged handler, Haji Fida. The cargo was to be transferred mid-sea to an Indian vessel and routed onward to Punjab, suggesting a structured and organised cross-border supply chain.
Officials noted that the intercepted boat carried extra diesel, food and survival supplies for several days, pointing to a carefully planned infiltration rather than opportunistic smuggling. Intelligence agencies have also identified a pattern in recent cases where large “mother vessels” remain offshore while smaller, faster boats make the final dash into Indian waters.
Rare high-speed delivery tactic raises concern
ATS officers described the use of a speed boat for chemical delivery as a rare and high-risk method intended to evade coastal patrol grids. Based on the input, specialised units were deployed along the Porbandar coast and an interception trap was laid on the anticipated route.
The operation was triggered late on February 15 following an alert that a chemical consignment weighing around 200 kg would enter Indian waters for handover. Swift coordination between central and state agencies enabled the interception before the cargo could be transferred.
Forensic analysis to decode network
Mobile phones recovered from the accused have been sent for forensic examination to trace contact chains, delivery instructions and possible Indian receivers, particularly the suspected Punjab-based handlers. Scientific testing is also underway to determine whether the seized material constitutes finished narcotics or precursor chemicals.
The seized boat, contraband and the arrested nationals have been taken to the Coast Guard station in Porbandar for legal proceedings.
Growing concern over maritime smuggling corridors
Security agencies believe the bust has dismantled a key link in an emerging Iran–India maritime drug corridor. The case highlights the increasing use of sea routes by international syndicates to bypass land-based enforcement.
Investigators indicated that further arrests are likely as the probe expands to domestic facilitators and financial networks. The operation not only prevented a large narcotics inflow but also underscored the need for tighter surveillance along vulnerable sea lanes used for cross-border trafficking.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
