₹3,000 Crore Drugs Seized From Iranian Dhow
The Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad have intercepted an Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea and seized 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market.
Iranian Dhow Intercepted West of Lakshadweep
The operation was carried out after specific intelligence indicated a major narcotics consignment was being transported through the Arabian Sea.
The suspected vessel was intercepted west of Lakshadweep after Coast Guard assets tracked its movement. Authorities said the dhow was registered in Iran and was being operated by five Pakistani nationals.
A search of the vessel led to the recovery of approximately 526 kg of narcotics, including heroin and methamphetamine.
Five Pakistani Nationals Taken Into Custody
All five crew members aboard the dhow were detained and brought to India for questioning and further investigation.
The vessel and seized contraband were escorted to Mumbai, where multiple agencies are expected to examine the origin, intended destination and wider network behind the shipment.
Investigators will also seek to determine whether the consignment was linked to an organised transnational narcotics syndicate operating through maritime routes in the Arabian Sea.
Drugs Worth Over ₹3,000 Crore Seized
Authorities estimated the international market value of the recovered drugs at more than ₹3,000 crore, making it one of the significant maritime narcotics seizures recorded in recent operations.
The Indian Coast Guard has carried out several joint anti-smuggling missions with state and central agencies in recent years, particularly along routes connecting Pakistan, Iran and India’s western coastline.
Further investigation into the financial and logistical network behind the shipment is underway.
