INDIAN AND SRI LANKAN NAVIES’ COMBINED OPERATION ON NARCOTICS SEIZURE

INN/Chennai, @Infodeaofficial

The Indian Navy promptly responded with a coordinated operation to locate and intercept the boats after receiving intelligence from the Sri Lankan Navy about possible drug smuggling by fishing vessels flying the Sri Lankan flag in the Arabian Sea.

Based on information from the Information Fusion Centre (Indian Ocean Region), Gurugram, Indian Naval Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft and Remotely Piloted Aircraft conducted extensive surveillance. To support these efforts, an Indian Naval ship was sent out.

Based on ongoing reports from the Sri Lankan Navy and IN aircraft’s aerial observation, two boats were discovered. Then, on November 24 and 25, the ship’s boarding team boarded both boats in a well-coordinated operation with the aerial assets, which resulted in the seizure of roughly 500 kg of drugs (Crystal Meth). To increase the force level for conducting anti-narcotics operations, one more IN ship was assigned.

The two boats, crew, and drugs that were found on board are being turned over to Sri Lankan authorities for additional legal action. The operation serves as a reminder of the strong ties and partnership that have grown between the two nations and fleets. It also represents the two navies’ shared determination to tackle regional maritime issues and maintain security and safety in the Indian Ocean region.