Synopsis
In a significant operation, the DRI and ICG arrested three individuals and seized nearly 30 kg of Hashish Oil valued at Rs 33 crore from a vessel bound for the Maldives. This operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling in the region.Key Takeaways
- DRI and ICG collaborated in a successful operation.
- Nearly 30 kg of Hashish Oil was seized.
- Three suspects were arrested during the operation.
- The operation took place off the Kanyakumari coast.
- Seized Hashish Oil is valued at Rs 33 crore.
New Delhi, March 9 (NationPress) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), in collaboration with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), apprehended three individuals and confiscated 29.954 kg of Hashish Oil valued at Rs 33 crore from a tug-barge vessel heading towards the Maldives, an official reported on Sunday.
DRI officials gathered crucial intelligence and pinpointed a tug vessel towing a barge filled with rock boulders that had set sail from Tuticorin Old Port.
“It was found that a group operating from Tuticorin secretly loaded substantial amounts of Hashish Oil onto the barge mid-voyage to the Maldives, aided by a crew member from the vessel,” stated a report.
Acting on DRI's information, the Indian Coast Guard intercepted the vessel on March 5, 2025, in mid-sea near the Kanyakumari coast and guided it back to Tuticorin New Port by March 7, 2025.
Meanwhile, the individual responsible for placing the narcotic on board, along with an accomplice, was arrested. Additionally, the crew member who facilitated communication of the vessel's location to the gang was also taken into custody for further inquiry after docking.
A search of the barge resulted in the recovery of two bags containing 29 plastic packets with food items labeled on them.
Upon examination, the packets were found to hold a black liquid paste-like substance, which, when tested with a field kit, was confirmed to be Hashish Oil, as noted in the report.
In total, 29 packets weighing 29.954 kg of Hashish Oil, estimated at Rs 32.94 crore in the illicit international market, were recovered and seized under the NDPS Act, 1985.
The three suspects were arrested and remanded to judicial custody on March 8, 2025, according to the statement.
