New Delhi: The Indian Coast Guard and ATS Gujarat carried out a major cocaine seizure during a joint anti-smuggling operation near the Mundra coast in Gujarat and recovered narcotics worth around Rs 1,150 crore.
The operation took place between May 25 and May 26 after ATS Gujarat shared specific intelligence inputs regarding suspected maritime smuggling activity.
ICG interceptor boats, carrying ATS personnel onboard, launched an extensive search operation in the Mundra anchorage area. During the mission, officials noticed suspicious movement near a container vessel and immediately moved towards the location.
Teams recovered five bags floating in the sea during the operation. Officials later examined the bags and found packets containing a white powdery substance.
Authorities confirmed that the substance tested positive for cocaine. Officials seized 115 packets weighing nearly one kilogram each, taking the total recovered contraband to around 115 kg.
According to open-source estimates, the international market value of the seized narcotics stands at nearly Rs 1,150 crore.
Cocaine seizure followed coordinated maritime operation
The Indian Coast Guard said the operation highlighted strong coordination between maritime security agencies and state anti-terror units.
Officials later brought the container vessel to port for further investigation into the smuggling network and possible links connected to the consignment.
The agencies continued questioning crew members and examining shipping details after the vessel reached port authorities.
The Coast Guard described the operation as the 15th successful joint anti-narcotics mission conducted with ATS Gujarat during the last five years.
Officials said such operations strengthened coastal security and supported the national campaign against drug trafficking.
The agencies also stated that intelligence-based maritime surveillance remained critical in preventing illegal smuggling activities along the Indian coastline.
The operation formed part of broader efforts to curb narcotics trafficking routes operating through the Arabian Sea and western coastal regions.
