Indian Navy's INS Tarkash Seizes 2,500 Kg of Narcotics in Major Maritime Operation
Frontline frigate INS Tarkash disrupts a major drug trafficking network in the Western Indian Ocean.
BNH NETWORK
Indian Navy's vigilant patrolling ensures security and stability in regional waters.
Western Indian Ocean - In a major crackdown on maritime drug trafficking, the Indian Navy’s frontline frigate INS Tarkash has successfully intercepted and seized 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean. This high-stakes operation highlights India’s steadfast commitment to maritime security and counter-narcotics enforcement.
Intercepting the Narcotics Traffickers
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 for Maritime Security Operations, INS Tarkash has been actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, a multinational maritime security initiative under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), based in Bahrain. The warship was participating in Operation Anzac Tiger, aimed at combating illicit maritime activities.
On March 31, 2025, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received intelligence inputs from an Indian Navy P-8I reconnaissance aircraft regarding suspicious vessels operating in the area. Suspecting illicit narcotics trafficking, the warship swiftly altered its course to intercept the target vessels.
Fact File: INS Tarkash’s Drug Seizure Operation
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Operation Name | Anzac Tiger |
| Date of Interception | March 31, 2025 |
| Vessel Intercepted | Suspicious Dhow |
| Narcotics Seized | 2,500 kg (Hashish & Heroin) |
| Naval Assets Used | INS Tarkash, P-8I Aircraft, Marine Commandos |
| Supporting Force | Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 |
Swift Action & Tactical Execution
INS Tarkash employed a combination of aerial surveillance, radar tracking, and coordinated interception maneuvers to track the suspicious vessels. A specialist boarding team, including elite Marine Commandos, conducted a search operation on a suspect dhow, uncovering:
- 2,500 kg of narcotics hidden in different compartments.
- 2386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin stored in sealed packets.
- Evidence linking the dhow’s crew to an international smuggling network.
The dhow was subsequently taken under the control of INS Tarkash, and its crew members were interrogated regarding their trafficking routes and connections.
Strengthening Regional Maritime Security
This operation underscores the effectiveness and professionalism of the Indian Navy in disrupting illicit activities at sea. By participating in multinational maritime exercises, India reinforces its role as a guardian of security, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Indian Navy’s Unwavering Vigilance
With its proactive maritime operations, the Indian Navy continues to be a formidable force in securing international waters against threats such as narcotics smuggling, piracy, and terrorism. By intercepting narcotics worth millions, this mission highlights India’s commitment to combat transnational crime and strengthen global maritime security.
