Gujarat ATS and Coast Guard Intercept Iranian Boat with 203 kg of Suspected Narcotics
In a significant joint anti-narcotics operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully intercepted an Iranian speed boat carrying 203 kilograms of a suspected chemical substance. The interception occurred in Indian waters near the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), approximately 140 nautical miles off the Porbandar coast. However, the exact type of the substance remains unidentified at this time, according to official statements.
Intelligence-Driven Operation Leads to High-Seas Chase
The operation was initiated based on specific intelligence received by Superintendent of Police KK Patel of the Gujarat ATS. The intelligence indicated that an Iranian drug smuggler, identified as Haji Fida, had dispatched a consignment of nearly 200 kilograms of suspected contraband from Konarak Port in Iran. It was further revealed that the shipment was scheduled to reach Indian waters between February 15 and 16, where it would be handed over mid-sea to an Indian vessel for subsequent transport to Punjab.
Acting on this critical input, a coordinated plan was swiftly developed, and a dedicated team was deployed to Porbandar. The intelligence was shared with the Coast Guard, leading to a seamless joint operation at sea. On Monday evening around 8 pm, an ICG ship from the Coast Guard Region (North West), which was on multi-mission deployment, was redirected to intercept a suspicious foreign boat near the IMBL.
Chase and Apprehension in Challenging Conditions
Despite adverse conditions with low visibility, the vessel was successfully located through a combination of technical surveillance and human intelligence. Upon noticing the approaching Coast Guard ship, the speed boat attempted to flee towards the notional IMBL. However, it was pursued and intercepted within Indian waters after a brief chase.
Two Iranian nationals on board were apprehended during the operation. They have been identified as Abdul Majid Ismail and Abdul Sattar Kadarbaksh, both residents of Chabahar, Iran. A thorough search of the vessel resulted in the recovery of 203 packets, each weighing approximately 1 kilogram, containing a crystalline substance suspected to be a narcotic drug.
Substance Analysis and Ongoing Investigation
A senior ATS officer provided details on the seized material, stating that the exact nature of the substance is yet to be determined. "This is not heroin, methamphetamine, or mephedrone. We have used field testing kits which ruled out these three substances. The samples have been sent for forensic examination to ascertain the exact composition," the officer explained.
ATS officers further disclosed that the consignment was intended for delivery in Punjab. A local individual in Gujarat was reportedly tasked with receiving the parcels mid-sea and arranging their onward transport. The intercepted boat, the accused individuals, and the seized substance have all been brought to the Porbandar Coast Guard station. Legal proceedings are currently underway as the investigation continues to unfold.
