In a meticulously planned operation aimed at combating narcotics trafficking, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in collaboration with the Anti-terrorism Squad (ATS) and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), intercepted a Pakistani vessel at sea on April 28, 2024. The operation resulted in the seizure of 86 kilograms of narcotics valued at approximately Rs 600 crore and the apprehension of 14 crew members onboard the vessel.
The successful operation was conducted by the ICG ship Rajratan, which was equipped with officials from the ATS and NCB. Despite attempts by the suspect vessel to evade detection, the Rajratan positively identified it, thanks to its advanced surveillance capabilities. With the support of a fleet of ships and aircraft deployed on concurrent missions, the Rajratan swiftly responded to intercept the drug-laden vessel, leaving no room for escape.
Upon interception, the specialist team from the Rajratan embarked on the suspect boat and conducted thorough checks, confirming the presence of a significant quantity of narcotics onboard. Following the successful operation, the crew members and the vessel were placed under arrest and are currently being escorted to Porbandar for further investigation and legal proceedings.
The collaborative effort between the ICG, ATS, and NCB underscores the commitment to combating narcotics trafficking and upholding national security objectives. This operation is just one of many successful law enforcement efforts resulting from the joint coordination between the ICG and ATS. In fact, over the past three years, eleven similar operations have been conducted, demonstrating the effective synergy between these agencies in addressing threats to national security and combating transnational crime.
