In a significant achievement towards achieving a drug-free India, an offshore seizure of drugs was successfully made by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Gujarat Police Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), and the Indian Coast Guard. This noteworthy success is a testament to the unwavering commitment and perseverance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji in making our nation free from the scourge of drugs.
An approximate 62 kg consignment of Methamphetamine was seized in the Arabian Sea, marking the second maritime seizure by NCB and ATS Gujarat in just three weeks. This follows the largest-ever maritime seizure of drugs in the country. The agencies have detained six individuals suspected to be Pakistani citizens, and further investigation is underway to establish any links to Pakistan.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, the Ministry of Home Affairs is fully committed to eliminating the menace of drugs, recognizing them as a threat to national security and the future of our country.
This seizure is a result of Operation “SAGAR-MANTHAN – 2,” which aims to target maritime trafficking of drugs. It showcases India’s leadership in maritime security in the region. Director General of NCB launched this operation, with Deputy Director General (Ops) Sh. Gyaneshwar Singh leading the team. The operation involves officers from the Operations Branch of NCB Headquarters, as well as officers from the Operations and Intelligence Branches of the Indian Coast Guard.
The primary objective of Operation “SAGAR-MANTHAN – 2” is to gather actionable intelligence that can lead to the interception of ships carrying narcotics contraband. The team has collaborated with the Indian Coast Guard, ATS Gujarat, and various intelligence agencies to exchange information and cultivate domestic and international assets. Technological interventions have also been deployed to generate actionable intelligence.
Based on specific intelligence developed by ATS Gujarat, a joint operation was launched on 8th March 2024, with the Indian Coast Guard successfully intercepting a foreign vessel carrying six Pakistani nationals and approximately 62 kg of methamphetamine on 12th March 2024.
The investigation indicates that the final destination of the seized drug may likely be Delhi NCR and Punjab. Efforts are underway to bust the entire international syndicate involved in this transnational trafficking of drugs, with the assistance of foreign drug law enforcement agencies.
NCB extends its appreciation to the Indian Coast Guard and ATS Gujarat Police for their stellar cooperation and coordination during this major milestone towards achieving the government’s goal of a drug-free India. This operation serves as a remarkable example of inter-agency cooperation and collaboration in the fight against drug trafficking.
The Government and agencies remain resolute in their commitment to ensuring a drug-free Bharat, guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision. Together, we will make our nation a safe and secure place for all its citizens.
