India Scores Major Win in War on Drugs: 700 kg of Meth Seized, 8 Iranians Arrested
In a daring joint operation, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Indian Navy, and Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) Gujarat Police intercepted a massive consignment of approximately 700 kg of methamphetamine in Indian territorial waters. Eight foreign nationals, claiming to be Iranians, were taken into custody during the operation.
This remarkable achievement is part of Operation “SAGAR-MANTHAN,” launched to combat maritime trafficking of illicit drugs. The operation’s success is a testament to the government’s zero-tolerance policy against drugs, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and guided by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Continuous intelligence gathering led to the identification of an unregistered vessel without AIS installation, suspected of carrying narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances.The Indian Navy, NCB, and ATS Gujarat Police collaborated to intercept the vessel, resulting in the seizure and apprehension on November 15, 2024.
As per sources, efforts are underway to identify the backward and forward linkages of the drug syndicate, with assistance from foreign Drug Law Enforcement Agencies (DLEAs).
This operation is one of several launched by NCB in coordination with the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard to counter maritime trafficking threats.
To date, approximately 3400 kg of various narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances have been seized, with 11 Iranian and 14 Pakistani nationals arrested in three cases, awaiting trial.
The Union Government has created 111 additional posts in NCB, including 5 SP-level posts, to bolster law enforcement agencies’ capabilities in combating drug trafficking and abuse.
This operation demonstrates India’s unwavering commitment to eradicating the scourge of drugs, aligning with the vision of a Nasha Mukt Bharat by 2047.
