Indian Coast Guard and DRI Seize ₹33 Crore Worth of Hashish Oil in Joint Operation
In a significant crackdown on narcotics smuggling, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) have seized nearly 30 kilograms of hashish oil, valued at approximately ₹33 crore, from a vessel en route to the Maldives.
Joint Operation by Indian Coast Guard and DRI
Acting on specific intelligence, the DRI identified a tugboat towing a barge loaded with rock boulders that had departed from Tuticorin Old Port. The agencies uncovered that a Tuticorin-based gang had clandestinely loaded substantial quantities of hashish oil onto the barge mid-sea during its voyage to the Maldives, with assistance from a crew member aboard the vessel.
Mid-Sea Interception and Seizure
On March 5, 2025, the ICG, acting on the DRI’s request, intercepted the vessel in international waters off the Kanyakumari coast. The vessel was escorted back to Tuticorin New Port by March 7, 2025, for a comprehensive search and investigation.
Discovery of Concealed Narcotics
Upon thorough inspection, authorities discovered two bags containing 29 plastic packets labeled as food items. However, these packets contained a black, paste-like substance that tested positive for hashish oil. In total, 29.954 kilograms of hashish oil, valued at ₹32.94 crore in the illicit international market, were seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Arrests and Ongoing Investigation
Three individuals have been arrested in connection with this operation: the person responsible for placing the narcotics on the vessel, his accomplice, and the crew member who shared the vessel’s location with the gang. All three have been remanded to judicial custody as the investigation continues.
Significance of the Seizure
This operation underscores the effectiveness of coordinated efforts between the ICG and DRI in combating maritime drug trafficking. The successful interception prevented a substantial quantity of narcotics from reaching international markets, highlighting India’s commitment to securing its maritime borders against illicit activities.
The authorities remain vigilant and are intensifying efforts to dismantle such smuggling networks, ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
