‘MV Devi’ ship stares at uncertain future at Paradip Port after seizure of cocaine worth Rs 220 crore

Uncertainty looms large over the departure of ‘MV Devi’ ship detained at Paradip Port, following recent legal developments. The ship was expected to depart from Paradip Port after the High Court’s order.

However, there is still uncertainty regarding its release after the Customs department seized cocaine worth Rs 220 crore and confiscated the vessel. An investigation is ongoing, and the cocaine was found onboard the ship. There is a significant possibility that the investigation could be obstructed if the ship is released.

The person responsible for smuggling the cocaine on the ship has not been identified yet. Hence, it is believed that the ship is unlikely to leave Paradip for now. 

Recently, the Orissa High Court rescinded an arrest order on the ship, originally issued due to unpaid berth charges owed to the port authority, PICT (Paradip Internatonal Cargo Terminal Private Limited).

Despite resolving the financial dispute between the ship's owners and PICT, the cocaine-related investigation remains unresolved, casting uncertainty over the vessel's future at the port.

Legal experts express skepticism regarding the ship's imminent departure. With the primary investigation still unfolding, the likelihood of the MV Devi setting sail from Paradip remains slim.

“The Honourable High Court’s order is for the issue between PICT and the ship. Because they have reached an amicable resolution, the High Court has ordered its release. However, the involvement of the Customs Department after the seizure of cocaine is a different case altogether. It is a high-profile case with a large quantity of cocaine seized. Maybe, the Customs department will file a review petition,” informed lawyer Gatikrushna Satapathy.