ICG, Gujarat ATS seize 203 Kg suspected drugs at sea

In a late-night joint operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) intercepted a speedboat near the notional International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and seized 203 kg of a crystalline substance suspected to be narcotics.

Acting on specific intelligence shared by the Gujarat ATS, an ICG vessel deployed in the North West region was redirected to track a foreign fishing boat believed to be involved in smuggling activities. Despite poor visibility and darkness at sea, the Coast Guard ship located the suspect craft using coordinated human and technical surveillance.

On spotting the approaching patrol vessel, the speedboat attempted to escape towards the IMBL. However, after a pursuit at sea, the Coast Guard team managed to intercept and stop the vessel. Two foreign nationals were found onboard.

A thorough search of the boat led to the recovery of 203 packets, each weighing approximately one kilogram, containing a crystalline substance suspected to be drugs. The seized vessel and its crew have been escorted to Porbandar for further investigation. The recovered substance will undergo forensic and chemical examination to determine its exact nature.

Officials said the operation highlights continued coordination between the ICG and Gujarat ATS in strengthening coastal security and countering smuggling activities along India’s maritime borders.

In a separate development earlier this year, the Gujarat ATS had arrested a 22-year-old man in connection with alleged anti-national activities. Authorities had claimed the accused was involved in a conspiracy to incite violence and had allegedly stockpiled weapons. Investigations in that case remain ongoing.