In a significant maritime drug interception, the Indian Coast Guard has confiscated a large consignment of hashish oil valued at approximately Rs 12 crore from a country boat near the Pamban coast in Ramanathapuram district. The operation, based on specific intelligence, unfolded last week, thwarting an alleged attempt to smuggle the contraband to Sri Lanka.
Operation Based on Specific Intelligence
Acting on a tip-off regarding the illegal transport of narcotics, Coast Guard personnel from Mandapam launched a targeted patrol operation in the Pamban-Mundhalmunai coastal area on Friday. The intelligence suggested a smuggling route being used to move drugs across the maritime border.
The Chase and Seizure
During the surveillance, the Coast Guard team spotted four suspicious individuals loading packages onto a country boat. Upon noticing the authorities, the suspects immediately jumped into the sea and managed to escape, evading capture. A thorough search of the abandoned boat, however, led to a major discovery. Officials found 9.5 litres of high-grade hashish oil cleverly concealed within secret compartments built into the vessel.
Investigation and Manhunt Launched
Preliminary investigations by the authorities indicate that the four individuals who fled are residents of the Thangachimadam area. Following the seizure, the confiscated narcotics were formally handed over to the Customs officials for further legal proceedings. Meanwhile, a concerted manhunt has been launched by the agencies to trace and apprehend the escaped suspects involved in this high-value smuggling attempt.
This seizure underscores the ongoing vigilance of the Indian Coast Guard along the Tamil Nadu coastline, particularly in routes suspected of being used for transnational drug trafficking. The operation highlights the critical role of intelligence-based actions in combating maritime crime.
