Coast Guard seizes 526 kg drugs, arrests five Pakistani nationals in Arabian Sea

The interdiction operation, conducted through integrated maritime surveillance, resulted in the recovery of 526 kilograms of drugs from waters west of the Lakshadweep archipelago. The five Pakistani nationals were taken into custody following the successful interception of the smuggling vessel in the Arabian Sea.

The seized contraband's estimated street value exceeds ₹3,000 crore, marking a significant blow to transnational drug trafficking operations in the region. The drugs have been secured and are undergoing forensic examination to determine their exact composition and origin.

The operation reflects the Indian Coast Guard's continued operational effectiveness in combating illicit maritime activities across Indian waters. The coordinated sea-air surveillance mechanism has proven instrumental in disrupting smuggling networks that attempt to use Arabian Sea routes for trafficking controlled substances into India.

The five apprehended Pakistani nationals remain in custody as investigations into the smuggling operation proceed. The case underscores the persistent challenge posed by organized drug trafficking networks operating across the Arabian Sea and highlights the importance of sustained maritime security operations.