A joint operation by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and central intelligence agencies has uncovered a major maritime narcotics-smuggling attempt in the Arabian Sea. Authorities intercepted an Iranian dhow west of Lakshadweep and recovered approximately 526 kg of heroin and methamphetamine, with an estimated international market value of more than ₹3,000 crore. Five Pakistani nationals found operating the vessel were also apprehended.
The operation followed intelligence inputs regarding the movement of a suspected vessel carrying a large narcotics consignment. Coast Guard units carried out coordinated surveillance from the sea and air, maintaining continuous tracking of the target before moving in to intercept it. The dhow was eventually boarded during the operation on September 25, 2026, west of the Lakshadweep Islands.
The recovered contraband comprised approximately 400 kg of methamphetamine and 126 kg of heroin, according to details reported by the Gujarat ATS. The total quantity was assessed at around 526 kg, while authorities placed its international illicit-market value at more than ₹3,000 crore.
The intercepted vessel has been identified in investigation reports as the Iranian dhow Azad. According to the Gujarat ATS, intelligence gathered earlier in September indicated that a large consignment of methamphetamine and heroin was expected to be moved through a maritime route connecting the Mumbai, Kochi and Lakshadweep region. Investigators are examining the suspected network and the intended recipients of the consignment.
The Ministry of Home Affairs said the operation took place within India’s Exclusive Economic Zone, around 160 nautical miles northwest of Lakshadweep and 490 nautical miles southwest of Mumbai. The wider operation involved coordination between Gujarat ATS, the Indian Coast Guard and central intelligence agencies.
During preliminary questioning, investigators reportedly learned that the dhow had departed from the Iranian port area of Konarak and that the narcotics had allegedly been transferred onto it from another boat that had arrived from Gwadar, Pakistan. These details are being examined as part of the ongoing investigation into the suspected international trafficking network.
After the interception, the dhow, its crew and the seized narcotics were brought to Mumbai under armed escort. The agencies are now conducting further interrogation and legal proceedings while working to establish the complete chain behind the shipment and identify other individuals who may have been involved.
The seizure represents a significant maritime narcotics interdiction and highlights the role of intelligence sharing, persistent surveillance and coordination between multiple security agencies in monitoring India’s maritime zones. Further investigation is expected to determine the intended destination of the drugs and the wider network associated with the consignment.
