Indian Navy intercepts, seizes 2,500 kg narcotics in Western Indian Ocean

HORNBILL TV

INS Tarkash, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy operating under the Western Naval Command, has successfully intercepted and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean.

New Delhi [India], April 3 (HBTV): INS Tarkash, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy operating under the Western Naval Command, has successfully intercepted and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean. The operation highlights the Indian Navy's commitment to combating maritime crime and bolstering regional security, the Government of India Defence Wing stated in a press release.

Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 for maritime security operations, INS Tarkash is actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which is part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) based in Bahrain. The ship is participating in the multinational joint operation, Anzac Tiger.

On March 31, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received multiple inputs from Indian Navy P8I aircraft regarding suspicious vessels operating in the area. These vessels were believed to be involved in illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking. In response, the ship altered its course to intercept the vessels.

After systematically interrogating all suspicious vessels in the vicinity, INS Tarkash intercepted and boarded a suspect dhow, with coordinated efforts from the P8I and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai. The ship also launched its integral helicopter to monitor the suspicious vessel and identify other vessels operating in the area.

A specialist boarding team, along with Marine Commandos, conducted a thorough search of the suspect vessel, leading to the discovery of various sealed packets. Further investigation revealed over 2,500 kg of narcotics, including 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin, stored in different cargo holds and compartments.

The suspect dhow was subsequently brought under the control of INS Tarkash, and the crew was subjected to questioning regarding their modus operandi and the presence of other similar vessels in the area.

This seizure highlights the Indian Navy's effectiveness in deterring and disrupting illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking at sea. The Navy's participation in multinational exercises aims to enhance security, stability, and prosperity across international waters in the Indian Ocean Region. (ANI)