Massive Drug Haul Worth Over Rs 5-7 Billion Seized in Arabian Sea Operation

In a significant blow to the regional narcotics trade, Indian authorities have seized illegal drugs worth over Rs 5-7 billion in a high-stakes operation in the Arabian Sea. The operation, carried out with precision by the Indian Navy and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), intercepted a suspicious vessel carrying a large quantity of banned substances suspected to have originated from the southern coastline.

According to a statement released by the NCB, the joint maritime operation took place over the weekend, following weeks of intelligence gathering and surveillance. The drugs were found concealed in hidden compartments aboard a foreign vessel, believed to be attempting to smuggle narcotics into Indian waters under the cover of darkness.

Officials confirmed that over 80 kilograms of heroin were seized, alongside quantities of methamphetamine and other synthetic drugs. The seized consignment is estimated to be worth more than Rs 5-7 billion (approximately USD 12 million) on the international black market.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the contraband originated from Pakistan and was destined for distribution within India through an established smuggling route that operates via the Arabian Sea. Authorities have taken the crew into custody for interrogation, with further leads expected to expose links to a wider drug trafficking syndicate.

Rear Admiral Sanjay Bhalla of the Indian Navy praised the operation’s success, stating, “This seizure reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding Indian waters and national security. Maritime drug smuggling is a growing threat, and we are adapting swiftly to counter it.”

The NCB also emphasized the rising frequency of maritime drug trafficking, noting that syndicates are increasingly using international waters to bypass land-based enforcement and checkpoints. With the involvement of multiple enforcement agencies, this operation reinforces the need for sustained maritime vigilance.

Security analysts have noted that India’s geographic proximity to the “Golden Crescent”—a region comprising Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan known for drug production—poses a continuing challenge to narcotics control efforts. Coordinated action and investment in maritime surveillance have been key in curbing such smuggling attempts.