In a blow to international narcotics syndicates, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) successfully intercepted a major drug trafficking attempt off the western coast of India, recovering over 300 kilograms of methamphetamine valued at approximately ₹1,800 crore. The joint operation took place during the night of April 12–13, 2025, and is being hailed as one of the largest maritime drug recoveries in recent times.
Coordinated Response and Swift Action
Acting on confirmed intelligence shared by the Gujarat ATS, an Indian Coast Guard ship deployed in the North Maharashtra–South Gujarat maritime zone was redirected to intercept a suspicious vessel near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). As the ICG ship approached the suspect boat, the traffickers dumped their narcotic cargo into the sea and made a desperate dash towards the IMBL.
ALSO READ: Call for Cyber Experts: Join FCRF Academy as Trainers and Course Creators
In response, the ICG crew launched a high-speed sea boat to recover the dumped consignment while simultaneously pursuing the fleeing vessel. However, the proximity to the IMBL and the initial distance between the two boats enabled the traffickers to cross over into international waters, effectively halting the chase due to jurisdictional constraints.
Methamphetamine Recovered Despite Adverse Conditions
Undeterred by challenging nighttime conditions and limited visibility, the ICG team managed to recover the narcotics from the sea. The consignment, identified as methamphetamine—a highly addictive synthetic stimulant—was brought ashore at Porbandar for further investigation and legal proceedings.
ALSO READ: Call for Chapters: Contribute to the Book “Cyber Crime – From Theory to Practice”
A Testament to Inter-Agency Synergy
This interception marks the 13th successful joint operation between the Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat ATS in recent years. The sustained collaboration between the two agencies underscores a growing synergy in combating maritime threats and cross-border criminal activities.
Authorities believe the swift interception and recovery have not only prevented a massive influx of narcotics into the country but also dealt a major blow to organized smuggling networks operating across the Arabian Sea.
Further investigation is underway to trace the origins of the consignment and identify the network behind the attempted transshipment.