On February 17, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) executed a significant overnight operation in collaboration with the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS). The operation was prompted by reliable intelligence that indicated drug smuggling activities involving a foreign fishing vessel near the notional International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL). An ICG ship, part of the multi-mission deployment from the Coast Guard Region (North West), was swiftly redirected to locate and intercept the suspected vessel.
Speedboat Flees but is Captured
Despite challenging conditions created by darkness, the ICG successfully detected the suspect boat through advanced human and technical surveillance techniques. Upon noticing the approaching IGC vessel, the speedboat attempted to evade capture by racing towards the IMBL. Nevertheless, the ICG was able to pursue and ultimately stop the boat. The vessel was manned by two crew members of foreign nationality at the time of interception.
Seizure of Crystalline Substance
A thorough search of the speedboat revealed 203 packets, each weighing one kilogram, containing a crystalline substance believed to be drugs. Following this discovery, the apprehended vessel was escorted to Port in Porbandar for further investigations and chemical analysis of the substance. This operation underscores the effectiveness of the collaboration between the ICG and the Gujarat ATS, which has previously led to numerous successful law enforcement actions aimed at enhancing coastal security.
Related Criminal Activities in Gujarat
In a related incident earlier in January, Gujarat Police arrested a 22-year-old individual, Faizan, on charges of alleged anti-national activities. Faizan, hailing from Dundawala in Rampur District, Uttar Pradesh, was residing in the Zarakwad area of Navsari, where he worked as a tailor. The Gujarat ATS, led by Deputy Superintendent of Police Harsh Upadhyay, received intelligence regarding Faizan’s activities, which allegedly included a plot to target prominent youths in Uttar Pradesh with intent to instill terror. Authorities stated that he had stockpiled weapons for this proposed attack, in addition to a conspiracy aiming to separate Kashmir from India through violent means.
Legal Actions and Investigations Underway
Upon receipt of credible information about Faizan’s plans, the Gujarat ATS initiated an investigation and directed staff to take legal measures against him. The agency’s proactive stance demonstrates its commitment to addressing threats to national security and ensuring public safety. This recent surge in law enforcement activities reflects a broader strategy to maintain order and combat unlawful activities within the region.
