Indian Coast Guard, Gujarat ATS seize 203 kg suspected narcotics near maritime boundary in Arabian Sea
New Delhi, February 17. In a swift overnight operation on February 16, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), working in close coordination with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), intercepted a speed boat carrying approximately 203 kg of suspected crystalline narcotics in the Arabian Sea, close to the notional International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL).
The operation was launched following corroborated intelligence inputs shared by the Gujarat ATS regarding a foreign fishing vessel allegedly involved in drug trafficking. Acting swiftly on the information, an ICG ship deployed under Coast Guard Region (North West) for multi-mission duties was diverted to track and intercept the suspect boat.
Despite challenging sea conditions, the Coast Guard vessel located the speed boat using a combination of human intelligence and advanced technical surveillance systems. The suspect craft attempted to flee, triggering a pursuit that ended with its successful interception.
Upon boarding, authorities found two foreign nationals operating the vessel. A detailed search led to the recovery of 203 packets, each weighing around one kg, containing a crystalline substance suspected to be narcotic drugs.
The seized boat, along with the contraband and the detained crew members, has been brought to Porbandar for further investigation. Officials said the recovered substance will undergo detailed chemical analysis to confirm its composition.
The seizure marks another significant success in ongoing efforts to curb transnational drug trafficking along India’s western maritime frontier.
