INS Tarkash Seizes Large Narcotics Consignment in Western Indian Ocean
Indian Navy’s INS Tarkash Intercepts Drug-Laden Vessel in High-Seas Operation
INS Tarkash, a frontline frigate of the Indian Navy operating under the Western Naval Command (WNC), successfully intercepted and seized a significant quantity of narcotics in the Western Indian Ocean. This operation highlights the Navy’s steadfast commitment to combating maritime crime and enhancing regional security.
Deployed in the Western Indian Ocean since January 2025 for Maritime Security Operations, INS Tarkash has been actively supporting Combined Task Force (CTF) 150, which operates under the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) based in Bahrain. The ship is currently participating in the multi-national joint operation Anzac Tiger.
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On March 31, 2025, while on patrol, INS Tarkash received intelligence from the Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft regarding suspicious vessels engaged in illicit activities, including narcotics trafficking. Acting swiftly, the ship adjusted its course to intercept the suspected vessels. After systematically questioning all suspicious vessels in the vicinity, INS Tarkash intercepted and boarded a suspect dhow in coordination with the P-8I aircraft and the Maritime Operations Centre in Mumbai.
To ensure comprehensive surveillance, the ship deployed its integral helicopter to monitor the suspect vessel’s activities and detect other potentially illicit vessels nearby. A specialist boarding team, including MARCOS (Marine Commandos), conducted a thorough search of the dhow, uncovering multiple sealed packets containing narcotics hidden in various cargo compartments.
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By participating in multinational operations, the Indian Navy continues to play a crucial role in ensuring maritime security, stability, and cooperation across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
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