In a major success for maritime security operations, the Indian Navy’s frontline warship INS Tarkash has intercepted and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean. The seizure, which includes 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin, highlights India’s strong stance against maritime crime.
INS Tarkash has been deployed in the region since January 2025, operating under the Western Naval Command in support of Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, part of the Bahrain-based Combined Maritime Forces (CMF). The operation was carried out as part of the ongoing multinational joint mission, ‘Anzac Tiger’.
On March 31, following intelligence from Indian Navy P8I aircraft about suspicious maritime activity, the warship altered course and intercepted a suspect dhow. With support from the Mumbai-based Maritime Operations Centre and its integral helicopter for surveillance, the ship successfully tracked and boarded the vessel.
A specialist boarding party, including MARCOS (Marine Commandos), discovered numerous sealed packets hidden across different compartments of the vessel. After a thorough search, the massive haul of narcotics was confirmed and the crew was subjected to detailed questioning.
The seizure reflects the Indian Navy’s operational capability and commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability in the Indian Ocean Region. This success not only disrupts illegal drug trafficking routes but also demonstrates India’s growing role in multinational maritime collaborations.
