5,500 kg Narcotics Seized by Coast Guard in Andaman Sea

In a significant operation, the Indian Coast Guard has intercepted a Myanmarese fishing boat in the Andaman Sea, seizing 5,500 kg of methamphetamine, marking the largest drug haul in maritime history. The operation also led to the discovery of a satellite phone on board, further deepening concerns over illicit activities in the region.

Detection and Interception of the Suspicious Vessel

The breakthrough came during a routine reconnaissance sortie conducted by a Coast Guard Dornier aircraft, which spotted the suspicious vessel, 'Soe Wai Yan Htoo.' The boat, carrying the Myanmar flag, appeared atypical for local Indian vessels. Upon this observation, the reconnaissance team alerted the Joint Operation Centre (JOC), which dispatched the Fast Patrol Vessel, ICG Ship Aruna Asaf Ali, to intercept the boat.

The Coast Guard maintained surveillance on the vessel through the night, ultimately boarding it on Sunday morning at 6:30 am, approximately eight nautical miles off Barren Island in Indian territorial waters.

Drug Seizure and Apprehension of Crew

Upon boarding, the Coast Guard found six Myanmarese nationals aboard the boat. A search of the vessel revealed a large quantity of a white crystalline substance, later confirmed to be methamphetamine. The haul, which weighed 5,500 kg, is believed to be one of the largest drug seizures in Indian maritime history.

In addition to the drugs, a portable Inmarsat Satellite phone was also found on the boat, further raising concerns about the scale of the operation. With these findings, the boat was apprehended and brought to Sri Vijaya Puram, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, for further investigation.

Increased Vigilance in the Andaman Sea

The successful interception is part of ongoing efforts to address the rising instances of Rohingya boats and Myanmarese poachers operating in the Andaman Sea. The Coast Guard has been maintaining heightened surveillance in the region, following intelligence gathered from the interrogation of a previously apprehended poacher. This latest operation underscores the Coast Guard's growing role in combating illegal maritime activities in Indian waters.

With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies