By Mewati Sitaram
In a coordinated operation to tackle narcotics smuggling in the Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has successfully assisted the Sri Lanka Navy in intercepting fishing vessels suspected of transporting illegal narcotics. Based on intelligence provided by the Sri Lankan Navy about possible narcotics trafficking by Sri Lankan-flagged fishing boats, the Indian Navy swiftly mobilized assets to localize and intercept the vessels.
Joint Surveillance and Interception Operation
Indian Naval Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft, supported by inputs from the Information Fusion Centre (Indian Ocean Region) in Gurugram, conducted extensive surveillance. An Indian Navy ship was also deployed to support the operation.
Following continuous intelligence and aerial surveillance, two boats were identified as carrying narcotics. On November 24 and 25, 2024, Indian Navy ships, in close coordination with aerial assets, boarded the two vessels. This led to the seizure of approximately 500 kg of Crystal Meth.
Strengthening Regional Cooperation
The two intercepted boats, along with their crew and the seized narcotics, were handed over to a Sri Lankan Navy ship at sea for further legal action. The Indian Navy also deployed an additional ship to enhance operational efforts in the region.
This successful operation underscores the strong cooperation between the Indian and Sri Lankan navies in addressing maritime security challenges and combating illegal activities in the Indian Ocean Region.
Strengthening Maritime Surveillance
As part of the ongoing partnership, the Government of India has provided a Dornier Maritime Aircraft to Sri Lanka, bolstering its capability for maritime surveillance. This collaborative effort reaffirms India’s role as the preferred security partner in the region and highlights the deepening ties between the two nations and their navies, benefiting both Indian and Sri Lankan citizens.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
