NE NEWS SERVICE
CHENNAI, DEC 19
In a major anti-smuggling success, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG), in coordination with the Central Intelligence Unit (CIU) Headquarters, Tiruchirappalli, seized 9.490 kg of hashish oil worth approximately ₹9 crore during a swift midnight operation off Pamban in the Gulf of Mannar.
In a swiftly coordinated #JointOperation, @IndiaCoastGuard Station #Mandapam, in close synergy with Central Intelligence Unit #Tiruchirapalli, successfully foiled an illegal drug trafficking attempt on the night of 18–19 Dec 25. An #Indian Fishing Boat was apprehended off the… pic.twitter.com/TzsnUAJ6fr
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) December 19, 2025
- 9.49 kg Contraband Seized in Midnight Interception
- Joint ICG–CIU Operation Based on Precise Intelligence
- Fishing Boat Apprehended, Case Handed Over for Legal Action
Intelligence-Led Midnight Interception
Acting on credible intelligence inputs indicating suspicious activity around the Gulf of Mannar islands, ICGS Mandapam and CIU Trichy intensified surveillance during the intervening night of 18–19 December. At around 0230 hours, a joint team sighted a suspicious Indian fishing boat off Pamban. The vessel was intercepted, and a thorough search led to the recovery of 9.490 kg of hashish oil concealed onboard.
Area Sanitised, Vessel Secured
Following the seizure, the joint team sanitised the surrounding waters to rule out the presence of additional suspect boats or vessels, ensuring complete operational security. The seized contraband along with the fishing boat was subsequently handed over to CIU, Tiruchirappalli, for further investigation and legal proceedings under applicable laws.
Maritime Vigilance Reinforced
The successful operation highlights the Indian Coast Guard’s role as the lead maritime law enforcement agency, and underscores the strong operational synergy with CIU, Customs, and other stakeholders. The ICG remains on high alert, maintaining constant vigilance to safeguard India’s maritime borders and prevent illegal activities at sea—true to its motto, ‘Vayam Rakshamaha’.