New Delhi: In a significant blow to drug trafficking networks, anti-narcotics agencies have successfully seized approximately 700 kg of methamphetamine and arrested eight Iranian nationals in a joint operation off the Gujarat coast near Porbandar on Friday, November 15. The street value of the seized methamphetamine is estimated to be between Rs 2,500 and 3,500 crore in the international market, according to officials from the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB). The operation, codenamed ‘Sagar Manthan-4’, was initiated based on intelligence reports indicating that an unregistered vessel, lacking an Automatic Identification System (AIS) or other electronic tracking indicators, was attempting to enter Indian territorial waters with illicit drugs.
The Indian Navy played a crucial role in identifying and intercepting the suspect vessel by deploying its maritime patrol assets, leading to the successful seizure of the narcotics and the apprehension of the suspects. During the operation, the eight detainees, who do not possess any identity documents, were arrested for their involvement in the drug trafficking attempt. The operation was executed in coordination with the NCB, the Navy, and the Gujarat Police Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), showcasing a united front against drug-related crimes. "This marks the second major coordinated anti-narcotics operation at sea by the Navy this year," a Navy spokesperson stated, emphasizing the commitment to maintaining a safe maritime environment and preventing the illegal use of the seas.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the operation, calling it a stellar example of the government’s dedication to combating drug trafficking. Shah highlighted that the successful bust of this international drug cartel aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a drug-free India, noting, "Our agencies today busted an international drug trafficking cartel and seized over approximately 700 kg of contraband meth in Gujarat." This year alone, agencies have intercepted over 3,500 kg of drugs trafficked through maritime routes, leading to the arrest of 11 Iranians and 14 Pakistani nationals in three separate cases. All foreign detainees are currently in custody, awaiting trial. In a broader effort to combat drug trafficking, the NCB announced that the Union government has created 111 new posts within the agency, including five at the superintendent of police level, in addition to the 425 positions established over the past two years. These operational achievements underscore a resolute commitment to eradicating drugs from India and realizing the vision of a ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ (drugs-free India) by 2047.
