In a major success for maritime security, the Indian Navy's warship INS Tarkash intercepted a vessel carrying over 2,500 kg of illegal drugs in the Western Indian Ocean. This operation highlights the Navy’s dedication to keeping the seas safe and preventing crimes like drug trafficking.
INS Tarkash has been patrolling the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 as part of its security mission. The ship is also part of an international naval force called Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which works under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) in Bahrain. Additionally, it is participating in a multinational operation named Anzac Tiger.
On March 31, while on a regular patrol, INS Tarkash received intelligence from an Indian Navy P-8I aircraft about suspicious boats in the area. Suspecting illegal activities, the warship changed its course to investigate. After questioning multiple vessels, the crew of INS Tarkash identified a particular dhow (a type of traditional boat) that seemed suspicious.
With support from the P-8I aircraft and the Indian Navy’s Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai, INS Tarkash successfully stopped the dhow. The ship’s onboard helicopter also kept an eye on the vessel and checked for any other suspicious boats nearby.
A special team, including Marine Commandos, boarded the dhow and carried out a detailed search. They discovered sealed packets containing 2,500 kg of drugs, including 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin. The crew of the dhow was questioned extensively to gather information about their smuggling network and other possible illegal activities in the region.
This successful operation demonstrates the Indian Navy’s crucial role in fighting illegal activities at sea. By working with international forces and conducting such security missions, the Navy continues to ensure safety and stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). (PR)