'Biggest Drug Haul Ever By Indian Coast Guard': 5 Tonnes Of Narcotics Seized In Andaman Sea Following 700 Kg Meth Bust Off Gujarat

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has intercepted what is believed to be its largest-ever drug consignment, seizing approximately 5 tonnes of narcotics from a fishing boat in the Andaman Sea.

Defence officials announced the operation on Monday (25 November), stating, "Indian Coast Guard has apprehended a huge consignment of around 5 tonnes of drugs from a fishing boat in the Andaman waters."

Expressing the likeliness that this is the biggest drug haul by the Indian Coast Guard ever, the force said more details would be shared later.

This seizure is part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on drug trafficking. Earlier this month, anti-narcotics agencies seized 700 kilograms of methamphetamine and apprehended eight Iranian nationals in Indian waters off the Gujarat coast during Operation Sagar Manthan 4.

The operation, coordinated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Indian Navy, and Gujarat Police Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), was based on intelligence inputs. The Navy identified and intercepted the vessel using its maritime patrol resources.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the effort, calling it a "stellar example" of inter-agency collaboration and the government’s commitment to eradicating drug trafficking.

This year alone, anti-narcotics agencies have confiscated over 3,500 kilograms of drugs via maritime routes, leading to the arrests of 11 Iranians and 14 Pakistanis in three separate cases. All accused are currently in custody awaiting trial, according to the NCB.

These actions highlight India's intensified efforts to curb the movement of illicit drugs and dismantle smuggling networks operating along its vast coastline.