The Indian Navy has successfully intercepted and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean, marking a significant achievement in its maritime security operations, the force announced on Wednesday.
According to the Indian Navy, the seizure was executed by INS Tarkash, a frontline frigate operating under the Western Naval Command, reinforcing the service’s commitment to combating maritime crime and strengthening regional security.
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 for Maritime Security Operations, INS Tarkash has been actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, part of the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) based in Bahrain. The ship is engaged in Operation Anzac Tiger, a joint multinational effort aimed at tackling illicit maritime activities.
Providing details of the operation, the Indian Navy stated that on March 31, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received multiple intelligence inputs from Indian Navy P8I maritime surveillance aircraft regarding suspicious vessels in the region suspected of involvement in narcotics trafficking.
Reacting promptly, the warship altered course to intercept the suspicious vessels. After thorough interrogation and systematic surveillance of all potential targets, INS Tarkash intercepted a suspect dhow, with coordinated support from P8I aircraft and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai.
The vessel was tracked, and an integral helicopter was deployed to monitor activities and identify any additional suspicious entities in the area.
Following standard procedures, a specialist boarding team, accompanied by Marine Commandos, conducted an extensive search of the dhow. During the search operation, various sealed packets were discovered in multiple cargo compartments.
A comprehensive examination confirmed the presence of over 2,500 kg of narcotics, including 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin.
The dhow was subsequently brought under the control of INS Tarkash, and its crew was subjected to detailed questioning regarding their operations, routes, and any potential networks facilitating similar illicit activities.
The Indian Navy highlighted the significance of the seizure, stating that it reflects the service’s professionalism and vigilance in countering drug smuggling and illicit activities at sea. It further reaffirmed that India’s participation in multinational maritime exercises aims to ensure security, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.
“The successful operation by INS Tarkash is a testament to the effectiveness of India’s maritime strategy and the Navy’s commitment to keeping sea lanes safe from illicit activities,” the statement said.
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