Porbandar: Gujarat’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and the Indian Navy, in a joint operation today, intercepted and seized around 700 kilograms of illegal drugs in a high-seas operation off Porbandar. The law enforcement agencies have also arrested 8 foreign individuals during the operation, who claim to be Iranian. In a major setback for global drug trafficking rings, this operation marks one of the largest drug seizures in the region.

The NCB in the X, tweet said, “In alignment with our vision for a drug-free Bharat, NCB successfully dismantled an international drug trafficking cartel today, seizing approximately 700 kg of meth in Gujarat. This joint operation with the Indian Navy and Gujarat Police exemplifies our unwavering commitment and impressive inter-agency collaboration.”

In alignment with our vision for a drug-free Bharat, NCB successfully dismantled an international drug trafficking cartel today, seizing approximately 700 kg of meth in Gujarat. This joint operation with the Indian Navy and Gujarat Police exemplifies our unwavering commitment and… pic.twitter.com/tHFxaFietQ

— NCB INDIA (@narcoticsbureau) November 15, 2024

The operation, which began late last night, took place in the Arabian Sea. Authorities intercepted a substantial drug shipment being transported by an Iranian vessel bound for India. The Indian Maritime Border Line (IMBL) radar detected the boat as it entered Indian waters, allowing officials to execute a precise interception.

“This operation is the result of months of intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts between Gujarat ATS, NCB, and maritime security agencies, including the Indian Navy. The interception of the Iranian vessel is a significant blow to the operations of international drug cartels in the region,” said a senior Gujarat ATS officer.

Further details will be released as the investigation progresses and verification of the recovery is completed. DeshGujarat