Porbandar, February 17, 2026: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) intercepted a speed boat near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea and seized approximately 203 kilograms of suspected crystalline narcotic substance.
Swift Overnight Operation
The interception took place during the night of February 16, following actionable intelligence shared by the Gujarat ATS. Based on the corroborated input, an Indian Coast Guard ship deployed under Coast Guard Region (North West) was immediately diverted for the mission.
The suspect vessel, believed to be engaged in illicit drug trafficking, was located close to the notional IMBL. Officials described the operation as swift and well-coordinated, reflecting seamless inter-agency cooperation.
Chase and Interception at Sea
Despite challenging maritime conditions, the Coast Guard vessel successfully tracked the target using a combination of human intelligence and technical surveillance systems. Upon detecting the approaching patrol ship, the speed boat attempted to flee.
The Coast Guard team pursued the vessel and managed to intercept it after a coordinated chase. Officers boarded the boat and secured the crew without incident.
203 Kg Suspected Narcotics Recovered
A detailed search of the intercepted boat resulted in the recovery of 203 packets, each weighing approximately one kilogram. The packets contained a crystalline substance suspected to be narcotic drugs.
Officials confirmed that the boat was manned by two crew members of foreign nationality. The identity and origin of the seized contraband will be determined after detailed forensic and chemical analysis.
Boat Brought to Porbandar
The apprehended speed boat, along with the seized substance and crew members, has been escorted to Porbandar for further investigation. Authorities will conduct detailed chemical examination to confirm the exact nature of the seized material.
Legal proceedings under relevant anti-narcotics and maritime security laws are expected to follow once laboratory reports are received.
Strengthening Coastal Security
The successful seizure highlights the Indian Coast Guard’s continued vigilance in safeguarding India’s maritime boundaries. Operating near the IMBL requires high levels of coordination and operational readiness due to sensitive security dynamics.
The joint effort between ICG and Gujarat ATS underscores the importance of intelligence sharing and rapid response in combating transnational drug trafficking networks operating through sea routes.
Drug smuggling through maritime corridors remains a significant security challenge, with traffickers often using small, fast-moving boats to evade detection. Authorities have intensified surveillance along the western coast to curb such activities.
