₹3,000 Crore Drug Haul Seized Near Lakshadweep: Gujarat ATS, Coast Guard Intercept Iranian Dhow

NewsDesk7 | Gujarat | October 1, 2026: In a major maritime anti-narcotics operation, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) intercepted an Iranian dhow in the Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep, and seized approximately 526 kg of narcotic substances valued at more than ₹3,000 crore in the international market. Five Pakistani nationals aboard the vessel were apprehended.
The seizure, carried out on September 25, involved heroin and methamphetamine. Authorities said the operation followed intelligence inputs and extensive sea-air surveillance of the suspected vessel.
Iranian Dhow Intercepted After Surveillance
According to authorities, the Coast Guard maintained continuous surveillance and tracking of the suspicious vessel before launching a pursuit and boarding operation.
The vessel was identified as an Iranian dhow, and enforcement teams intercepted it west of the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. The crew and seized material were subsequently escorted to Mumbai for further questioning and legal proceedings. Press Information Bureau
526 Kg of Heroin and Methamphetamine Seized
Officials said the total quantity of narcotics recovered was approximately 526 kg.
The consignment comprised:
- Heroin
- Methamphetamine
- Estimated international-market value: more than ₹3,000 crore
The quantity and estimated value have made the seizure a significant operation against maritime narcotics trafficking. Press Information Bureau
Five Pakistani Nationals Apprehended
Five Pakistani nationals who were aboard the dhow were apprehended during the operation.
The individuals and the seized vessel were brought under security to Mumbai, where agencies are conducting further interrogation and investigation to establish the suspected supply chain and intended destination of the narcotics. Press Information Bureau
Intelligence Triggered the Operation
Investigators said the operation originated from intelligence received earlier in September concerning a suspected international narcotics transaction.
The information reportedly pointed to a plan involving an Iranian vessel carrying a large quantity of drugs into waters around India, prompting surveillance and coordinated action by the agencies.
Authorities are now examining the suspected network behind the shipment, including its source, intended recipients and possible links with other trafficking operations.
Multi-Agency Investigation Underway
Following the interception, the dhow, crew members and seized narcotics were taken to Mumbai for joint interrogation and further investigation.
Multiple central and state agencies are expected to examine the evidence and financial and communication trails associated with the suspected trafficking operation. Press Information Bureau
The investigation will seek to establish the complete route of the narcotics and identify any additional individuals or organisations allegedly connected with the shipment.
Maritime Surveillance in Focus
The operation also underlines the role of coordinated sea and air surveillance in detecting suspected narcotics shipments operating along India's maritime routes.
Authorities said persistent tracking was followed by a coordinated interception, allowing the suspected vessel to be boarded and searched. Press Information Bureau
Investigation Continues
The seized narcotics and apprehended crew members remain part of an ongoing investigation. Authorities have not yet publicly established the complete chain of ownership and distribution associated with the shipment.
Any allegations against the apprehended individuals will be subject to investigation and the judicial process.
Key Highlights
- Narcotics seized: Approximately 526 kg
- Estimated international value: More than ₹3,000 crore
- Drugs recovered: Heroin and methamphetamine
- Location: Arabian Sea, west of Lakshadweep
- Vessel: Iranian dhow
- People apprehended: Five Pakistani nationals
- Operation date: September 25, 2026
- Next step: Joint interrogation and multi-agency investigation in Mumbai