In a significant operation aimed at curbing narcotics trafficking in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy successfully intercepted two fishing boats flagged from Sri Lanka, suspected of being involved in smuggling activities. This operation took place over the course of November 24 and 25 and led to the seizure of approximately 500 kg of crystal meth.
The operation was launched following credible intelligence received from the Sri Lankan Navy, alongside aerial surveillance executed by both the Indian Naval Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). The Indian Navy’s coordinated efforts were further supported by data from the Information Fusion Centre (Indian Ocean Region) located in Gurugram, which played a critical role in localizing and identifying the two vessels engaged in the illegal activity.
During the operation, an Indian Navy warship was deployed, and with the aid of aerial assets, the two fishing vessels were successfully boarded. Additionally, to enhance operational capabilities, another Indian Navy ship was dispatched to provide additional support, ensuring comprehensive surveillance and effectiveness in carrying out the mission.
The seized narcotics, along with the fishing boats and their crew members, will be handed over to Sri Lankan authorities to initiate further legal proceedings. This collaborative operation not only highlights the Indian Navy’s quick response but also demonstrates the strong maritime partnership that exists between India and Sri Lanka in addressing shared security challenges in the region.
In a broader context of maritime security, this operation follows closely on the heels of the fourth edition of the Pan-India Coastal Defence Exercise Sea Vigil 2024, which concluded on November 21. This extensive exercise was executed in two phases, with the first phase spanning November 13 to 19, and the second phase encompassing a rigorous 36-hour period involving coordination across all coastal states and union territories of India.
Sea Vigil 2024 enlisted the participation of over 21 agencies from six ministries, including the Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, State Marine Police, Customs, Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Port Authorities, and the Fisheries Department, among others. The second phase of the exercise showcased a substantial deployment of over 550 surface assets from various maritime security agencies, executing 60 air sorties that accounted for approximately 200 hours of flying time over India’s expansive 11,098 km coastline and its Exclusive Economic Zone of 2.4 million square kilometers.
Through these operations and exercises, India reiterates its commitment to enhancing maritime security and coastal defense mechanisms, ensuring safety and security in the Indian Ocean Region.
