New Delhi, 29 November 2024 – The Indian Navy intercepted a Sri Lankan fishing vessel carrying approximately 500 kilograms of crystal meth in a coordinated operation with the Sri Lankan Navy in the Arabian Sea.
According to reports, the operation, conducted on November 24-25, was initiated after the Sri Lankan Navy shared intelligence about possible narcotics smuggling by Sri Lankan-flagged fishing boats. The Information Fusion Centre (Indian Ocean Region) in Gurugram further analyzed and processed these inputs.
"Leveraging the intelligence, we deployed extensive surveillance assets, including the Boeing P8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft and UAVs," the Indian Navy said in a statement.
Aerial surveillance and real-time coordination led to the identification of two suspicious vessels. Indian Navy teams boarded both boats, uncovering a substantial haul of crystal meth.
"This operation underscores the effectiveness of maritime cooperation and intelligence sharing between India and Sri Lanka," the Navy added.
The seized narcotics, along with the crew and vessels, are being handed over to Sri Lankan authorities for legal proceedings.
