Major Blow to Drug Trafficking: 526 kg of Narcotics Seized from Iranian Boat in India's EEZ, 5 Pakistanis Arrested
In a joint operation, the Gujarat ATS, Indian Coast Guard, and central intelligence agencies seized 526 kg of methamphetamine and heroin and arrested five Pakistani nationals.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah announced a major success in the ongoing fight against drugs. During a joint operation conducted by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the Indian Coast Guard, and central intelligence agencies, 526 kilograms of methamphetamine and heroin were seized from an Iranian boat within India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Five Pakistani nationals were arrested during the operation.
Sharing the details on the social media platform X, the Home Minister stated that the boat was located 160 nautical miles northwest of Lakshadweep and 490 nautical miles southwest of Mumbai. He emphasized that the Modi government is fully committed to protecting the youth from the evils of drug abuse. The 16-day operation, which ran from September 14 to September 30, resulted in the seizure of both the narcotics and the Iranian vessel. This operation serves as a testament to the strong coordination between various agencies and the effective use of intelligence in securing India's maritime borders.
Amit Shah clarified that further investigations are underway to uncover the larger structure of this drug network and to identify the intended receivers of the contraband.
On this occasion, he mentioned that the 'Drug Control Vision Document (2026–2029)' released by the Modi government provides a comprehensive framework for strengthening law enforcement, dismantling drug networks, and protecting society and the youth from narcotics. He stressed that building a secure, healthy, and drug-free India is a shared national resolve.
