In a significant boost to regional security, the Indian Naval Ship (INS) Tarkash successfully intercepted and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean, the Indian Navy announced on Wednesday.
A frontline stealth frigate operating under the Western Naval Command, INS Tarkash has been deployed in the region since January 2025 as part of Maritime Security Operations. The warship is actively supporting the Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which is a part of the Bahrain-based Combined Maritime Forces (CMF), and is participating in the multinational Operation Anzac Tiger.
On March 31, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received intelligence from Indian Navy P8I aircraft regarding suspicious vessels in the area believed to be engaged in narcotics trafficking. Acting on these inputs, the warship altered its course to intercept the suspect vessels.
After conducting systematic interrogations of multiple ships in the vicinity, INS Tarkash intercepted and boarded a dhow suspected of smuggling narcotics. The operation was carefully coordinated with the P8I aircraft and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai. Additionally, the ship deployed its integral helicopter to monitor and identify other suspicious vessels in the area.
A specialist boarding team, including Marine Commandos (MARCOS), boarded the suspect dhow and conducted a thorough search. The operation resulted in the discovery of multiple sealed packets hidden across different cargo compartments. Upon further inspection, the team uncovered:
- 2,386 kg of hashish, and
- 121 kg of heroin.
Following the seizure, the dhow was brought under the control of INS Tarkash, and the crew was subjected to detailed questioning regarding their operations and the presence of other smuggling networks in the area.
This successful interception highlights the Indian Navy’s unwavering commitment to combating maritime crime and disrupting illicit activities at sea. With active participation in multinational joint operations, the Indian Navy continues to enhance maritime security, stability, and prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
This latest seizure reinforces India’s growing role in safeguarding international waters from drug trafficking, piracy, and other illegal activities—solidifying its position as a key maritime security player on the global stage.
