Indian Coast Guard Seizes 53.6 kg of Cannabis Near Indo-Sri Lankan IMBL

New Delhi, January 29, 2025 – In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Station Mandapam successfully intercepted and seized a large consignment of cannabis near the Indo-Sri Lankan International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) on the morning of January 29. The operation, based on intelligence inputs, resulted in the recovery of approximately 53.620 kg of cannabis (ganja), valued at around Rs 60 lakh.

Operation Details

Acting swiftly on intelligence inputs, the ICG deployed an Air Cushioned Vehicle (ACV) for patrolling and search operations near the First Island, a key location close to the IMBL, often exploited for illegal smuggling activities.

During an extensive search, the ACV team spotted multiple abandoned packages on the island. Upon investigation, a total of 12 packets of contraband were recovered. Preliminary examination confirmed the packets contained high-quality cannabis.

Narcotics Smuggling in the Region

The Palk Bay region, close to the Indo-Sri Lankan maritime border, has been a notorious route for narcotics and contraband smuggling due to its porous maritime boundaries and dense network of small islands. Smugglers often use uninhabited islands as transit points to evade law enforcement agencies.

The Indian Coast Guard, in close coordination with other enforcement agencies, has been vigilantly monitoring illegal activities in this region. The latest seizure is part of ongoing efforts to curb cross-border narcotics trade and disrupt smuggling networks.

Coast Guard’s Commitment to Maritime Security

The successful seizure highlights the proactive approach of the Indian Coast Guard in tackling drug trafficking. The contraband is being handed over to the Customs Department for further investigation and legal action.

The ICG has reaffirmed its commitment to zero tolerance for drug smuggling and continues to enhance surveillance along the coastal and maritime borders. Regular coordinated patrols, intelligence-sharing, and rapid response measures have significantly contributed to preventing illicit activities in Indian waters.

Authorities suspect that the smuggled cannabis was intended to be transported to the Indian mainland through fishing vessels or local networks. Investigations are underway to identify the culprits behind the consignment.

Recent Anti-Drug Operations by ICG

The Indian Coast Guard has been actively engaged in preventing drug trafficking via sea routes. In recent months, multiple operations have resulted in the seizure of narcotics, including heroin, methamphetamine, and cannabis, from vessels operating near India’s maritime boundaries.

This latest seizure further strengthens the Coast Guard’s mission to keep Indian waters free from illegal activities and ensure maritime security.

Government’s Stand on Drug Smuggling

The Government of India, under its ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’, has been actively cracking down on drug cartels operating through land and sea routes. Enforcement agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Customs, Indian Navy, and Coast Guard, are working together to curb drug trafficking networks and secure India’s borders from illicit trade.

With continuous vigilance and swift action, the Indian Coast Guard continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s maritime frontiers and combating transnational crimes.