A routine patrol uncovers 6,000 kg of drugs in mysterious waters

New Delhi(The Uttam Hindu): In a landmark anti-narcotics operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) seized a fishing trawler carrying 6,000 kg of Methamphetamine near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The contraband, packed in approximately 3,000 packets of 2 kg each, is valued at several crores of rupees in the international market, officials reported on Monday.

The operation unfolded on November 23 when a Coast Guard Dornier aircraft, during routine patrol, spotted suspicious activity near Barren Island, about 150 km from Port Blair. The fishing trawler, despite being warned, was intercepted by nearby fast patrol vessels and towed to Port Blair on November 24 for further investigation. Six Myanmarese crew members aboard the trawler were arrested. Authorities believe the Methamphetamine was destined for India and neighboring countries. The Andaman and Nicobar Police have been notified for a joint interrogation of the suspects.

This seizure marks one of the largest in the region's history. Similar contraband was intercepted in Indian waters near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in 2019 and 2022. Methamphetamine, primarily used as a recreational and performance-enhancing drug, poses significant challenges to law enforcement agencies. Investigations are ongoing, and further updates are anticipated.