Indian Coast Guard Seizes 203 kg Suspected Narcotics Near IMBL in Arabian Sea

In a major maritime interdiction operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in close coordination with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), seized approximately 203 kilograms of suspected crystalline narcotic substance from a speed boat near the notional International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Arabian Sea.

The operation, conducted overnight on February 16, 2026, highlights heightened coastal surveillance and inter-agency coordination aimed at curbing transnational drug trafficking.

Intelligence-Led Operation Triggers Immediate Interception

The interception followed corroborated intelligence input shared by the Gujarat ATS, indicating the movement of a foreign fishing vessel suspected of engaging in illicit narcotics trafficking.

Acting swiftly, an ICG ship deployed under Coast Guard Region (North West) for multi-mission duties was immediately diverted to intercept the suspect vessel.

Officials said the rapid redeployment demonstrated the Coast Guard's operational readiness and integrated maritime security architecture along India's western seaboard.

High-Seas Pursuit Under Challenging Conditions

Despite difficult sea conditions, the Coast Guard ship successfully identified the suspect vessel using a combination of human intelligence inputs and advanced technical surveillance systems.

On sensing the presence of security forces, the suspect speed boat attempted to flee. The ICG vessel launched a coordinated pursuit and successfully intercepted the craft in the vicinity of the IMBL.

Upon boarding, authorities found the boat manned by two crew members of foreign nationality.

203 Packets of Suspected Narcotics Recovered

A detailed search of the intercepted vessel led to the recovery of:

• 203 packets,

• Each weighing approximately one kilogram,

• Containing a crystalline substance suspected to be narcotic drugs.

The total seizure amounts to approximately 203 kilograms, marking one of the significant offshore drug interceptions in recent months in the region.

The exact nature and purity of the seized substance will be determined following forensic and chemical examination.

Vessel and Crew Brought to Porbandar

The apprehended speed boat, along with the seized contraband and detained crew members, has been escorted to Porbandar for further investigation.

Authorities will now conduct:

• Detailed chemical analysis of the seized substance

• Interrogation of the crew

• Investigation into the larger trafficking network

• Examination of possible cross-border linkages

Strengthening Maritime Security and Anti-Narcotics Efforts

The operation underscores the growing use of intelligence-driven maritime enforcement to counter narcotics trafficking routes operating near India's western maritime boundaries.

Officials said the success reflects robust coordination between maritime security agencies and state-level counter-terror units, particularly in sensitive waters near the IMBL.

The seizure forms part of sustained efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks operating in the Arabian Sea and safeguard India's coastal security architecture.