INS Tarkash Intercepts Vessel, Seizes 2,500 kg of Narcotics in Western Indian Ocean

INS Tarkash Seizes Over 2,500 kg of Narcotics in Western Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy’s frigate INS Tarkash intercepted a vessel and seized over 2,500 kg of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean, the Navy announced on April 2, 2025.

According to the Ministry of Defence, on March 31, 2025, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received intelligence inputs from Indian Navy P8I maritime patrol aircraft regarding suspicious vessels engaged in illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking.

Responding swiftly, the warship altered course and systematically interrogated multiple suspicious vessels in the area before intercepting and boarding a suspect dhow. A thorough search of the vessel revealed over 2,500 kg of narcotics, including 2,386 kg of hashish and 121 kg of heroin, concealed in various cargo holds and compartments.