NEW DELHI: โIn a significant operation underscoring its commitment to regional security, the Indian Navy’s frontline frigate, INS Tarkash, successfully intercepted and seized over 2,500 kilograms of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean. โ
On March 31, 2025, while conducting routine patrols, INS Tarkash received intelligence from Indian Navy P-8I aircraft regarding suspicious vessels suspected of engaging in illicit narcotics trafficking. Responding promptly, INS Tarkash altered its course to intercept these vessels.ย
A coordinated effort involving the P-8I aircraft and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai led to the identification of a suspect dhow. Additionally, the ship deployed its integral helicopter to monitor the activities of the suspicious vessel and identify other potential threats in the vicinity.ย
A specialist boarding team, supported by Marine Commandos, boarded the suspect vessel and conducted a thorough search. This operation resulted in the discovery of various sealed packets containing illicit substances.ย
Subsequent examination revealed a total of 2,507 kilograms of narcotics, comprising 2,386 kilograms of hashish and 121 kilograms of heroin, concealed in different cargo holds and compartments aboard the vessel. โ
Strategic and Socio-Economic Impact
The interception and seizure operation highlights the Indian Navy’s effectiveness in deterring and disrupting illicit maritime activities.ย
By preventing the trafficking of such a substantial quantity of narcotics, the operation not only disrupted international drug trade networks but also reinforced India’s role in promoting security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). โ
INS Tarkash’s Deployment and Mission
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025, INS Tarkash has been actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, a multinational security coalition based in Bahrain under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF).ย
The ship is also participating in the joint focus operation, Anzac Tiger. This strategic positioning underscores India’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and combating transnational crimes in international waters.ย
#BREAKING: ๐ข๐ฅINS Tarkash seizes over 2500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean Region!
In coordination with @CMF_Bahrain & @IndianNavy, INS Tarkash intercepted a suspect vessel, seizing 2386 kg of hashish & 121 kg of heroin. ๐ฎ๐ณ๐ฎโโ๏ธ
Reports @Nihal_kumar0045โฆ pic.twitter.com/w4RweflxSD
โ The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) April 2, 2025
The successful seizure of over 2,500 kilograms of narcotics by INS Tarkash exemplifies the Indian Navy’s dedication to safeguarding regional security and combating illicit maritime activities. This operation not only disrupted significant drug trafficking operations but also reinforced India’s strategic role in promoting stability and prosperity across international waters in the Indian Ocean Region.
