Coast Guard Foils ₹1,800 Cr Drug Smuggling Off Gujarat

In a high-stakes operation near Gujarat’s coastline, the Coast Guard and ATS seized 300 kg of meth worth ₹1,800 crore. The drug bust highlights growing cross-border narcotics threats in the Arabian Sea.

Coast Guard Foils ₹1,800 Cr Drug Smuggling Off Gujarat

A high-seas chase, an international drug racket, and a sharp intelligence tip—India’s security forces pull off a major narcotics bust.

In the dark waters off Gujarat’s coast, a dramatic overnight operation unfolded as the Indian Coast Guard and Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) intercepted a massive drug consignment worth ₹1,800 crore ($215 million). The operation, conducted between April 12 and 13 near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), culminated in the recovery of 300 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine—a synthetic drug with global demand and devastating social consequences.

According to official sources, the mission was driven by real-time intelligence shared by the Gujarat ATS. Acting swiftly, the Coast Guard dispatched a ship from its Western Region toward the target coordinates near the IMBL in the Arabian Sea. Despite pitch darkness, the ship’s crew successfully identified a suspicious vessel. However, as the Coast Guard vessel closed in, the smugglers onboard jettisoned their cargo into the sea and sped off, breaching the international boundary line to evade capture.

Meth Seizure Reflects Rising Drug Trade in Arabian Sea

This interception underscores the growing challenge of maritime drug trafficking in the Indian Ocean Region. Methamphetamine—often referred to as “ice” or “crystal”—is increasingly trafficked by transnational criminal networks due to its high profit margins. With routes spanning from Southeast Asia to East Africa and the Middle East, India’s western coastline has become a key transit corridor for narcotics.

A senior official from the Indian Coast Guard noted, “The smugglers attempted to exploit the proximity to the international boundary, assuming they could outrun interception. But our teams were ready. We immediately launched recovery efforts, retrieving the consignment before it sank or drifted away.”

Initial tests indicate that the seized substance is methamphetamine, although forensic confirmation is pending. If verified, this would mark one of the largest meth seizures off India’s coast in recent years.

Tightened Maritime Surveillance Pays Off

India has significantly ramped up its maritime surveillance capabilities in response to the rise in seaborne smuggling. Coast Guard patrols have increased in frequency, aided by aerial surveillance and satellite tracking systems. Intelligence coordination between state ATS units and federal maritime forces has also been enhanced.

This operation exemplifies how such collaboration is yielding tangible results. The ATS, known for its proactive intelligence network across Gujarat’s ports and coastal villages, provided the tip that triggered this mission. A coordinated sea chase followed—one that prevented the drugs from slipping undetected into domestic or international markets.

Former Indian Navy officer and maritime security expert Cdr. Anil Rawat (Retd) says, “Smugglers are adapting—shifting to high-speed boats, using smaller consignments, and coordinating drop-offs mid-sea. The only counter to this is rapid, intelligence-led action, which we’re now seeing more of.”

Geopolitical Implications and Regional Threats

The operation also highlights broader security concerns. The Arabian Sea has become a focal point not only for trade but also for illicit activities—from arms smuggling to narcotics trafficking. Many of these drug consignments have origins in the so-called “Golden Crescent” region, comprising Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan—areas known for opiate and synthetic drug production.

India’s western coastline, especially Gujarat’s extensive sea-facing border, is particularly vulnerable due to its closeness to these routes. The IMBL, while demarcated, is difficult to police fully due to its vast expanse and limited visibility at night. Smugglers often exploit this, conducting swift drop-offs before slipping into international waters.

A Wake-Up Call for Continued Vigilance

While the smugglers managed to flee, the successful seizure of such a large quantity of narcotics is a win for Indian authorities. The contraband is now in ATS custody, with further investigations underway to trace the supply chain and possible handlers in India.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complex, evolving nature of drug smuggling and the need for vigilant maritime law enforcement. As drug cartels expand their reach and refine their methods, India’s coastal security apparatus must remain one step ahead—relying not just on strength, but on speed, intelligence, and inter-agency coordination.

Conclusion: Defending the Shoreline Beyond Borders

India’s latest drug seizure at sea isn’t just about intercepting narcotics—it’s about safeguarding national security, protecting vulnerable communities, and sending a strong message to international traffickers. With rising pressure on maritime routes, India’s coastlines are the new frontlines. Successes like this reinforce the need for agile, tech-backed, and intelligence-driven defense strategies to keep these waters safe.

Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. Details of the ongoing investigation may evolve. The substance mentioned is suspected to be methamphetamine but awaits final forensic verification.

source : Moneycontrol