Delhi/Hyderabad, Oct 3 (Maxim News): The Rs 3,000-crore drug seizure near the Lakshadweep Islands has disrupted an alleged narcotics network linked to Haji Salim, officials said.
The operation has also increased pressure on the network as coastal agencies tighten surveillance along traditional maritime routes.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad arrested five Pakistani nationals operating the vessel. They also seized 400 kg of methamphetamine and 126 kg of other high-grade drugs.
According to an official, investigators believe the consignment was intended for Tamil Nadu. It was allegedly meant to move onward to international markets.
Coastal Surveillance Limits Traditional Routes
An official alleged that Haji Salim, described as an aide of Dawood Ibrahim, oversees narcotics smuggling into southern states. The official said consignments are then moved towards Sri Lanka and countries including Thailand.
Officials said the network previously relied heavily on the Gujarat route. However, repeated seizures and increased coastal surveillance have made that route harder to use.
The network subsequently shifted towards southern maritime routes, officials said. The Iranian dhow carrying the latest consignment was intercepted 160 nautical miles northwest of Lakshadweep.
Another official said the latest operation has placed the alternate route under increased scrutiny. The network may now seek another maritime route to move future consignments, the official added.
The latest seizure follows heightened efforts by coastal agencies to prevent large narcotics consignments from reaching Indian shores.
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