New Delhi: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy successfully intercepted two Sri Lankan-flagged fishing vessels in the Arabian Sea, leading to the seizure of approximately 500 kg of crystal meth.

The operation was initiated after the Sri Lankan Navy provided intelligence about probable narcotics smuggling activities by fishing vessels in the region. Acting swiftly, the Indian Navy mobilized its Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft to conduct extensive surveillance. Inputs were also received from the Information Fusion Centre (Indian Ocean Region) based in Gurugram.

An Indian naval ship was deployed to augment the efforts, while continuous aerial surveillance played a crucial role in tracking the suspect vessels. On November 24 and 25, a closely coordinated effort between the Indian Navy’s ship and aerial assets resulted in the identification and boarding of the two boats.

The operation led to the seizure of 500 kg of crystal meth, and an additional Indian naval ship was deployed to bolster the force for the anti-narcotics mission. The seized vessels, along with their crew and the narcotics, are being handed over to Sri Lankan authorities for further legal action.