Massive Drug Bust in Arabian Sea: Coast Guard Seizes Rs 480 Crore Worth of Narcotics

Porbandar, Gujarat: March 12, 2024 - In a major victory against drug trafficking, a joint operation by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), Coast Guard, and Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) resulted in the seizure of drugs worth Rs 480 crore from a Pakistani boat in the Arabian Sea. Six Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were apprehended.

Officials revealed at a press conference that the drugs, originating from Afghanistan, were likely destined for Delhi or Punjab via Porbandar or Jakhau ports. Superintendent of Police Sunil Joshi of the ATS identified Haji Mustufa as the mastermind behind the smuggling operation.

Coast Guard on High Alert

Acting on tip-off regarding a drug smuggling attempt, the Coast Guard strategically patrolled a designated area in the Arabian Sea. Dornier aircraft assisted in pinpointing the suspicious vessel, leading to its swift capture and the arrest of all occupants. This operation marks another significant achievement in securing Gujarat's maritime borders. Over the past three years, authorities have seized a staggering 517 kg of narcotics with an estimated value of Rs 3135 crore from the state's coastline.