115 kg of Cocaine Seized Aboard Container Ship: India Uncovers New Maritime Drug Trafficking Route

Indian authorities have carried out a major anti-drug operation, resulting in the seizure of 115 kilograms of cocaine aboard the container vessel Europe. Investigators estimate the street value of the drugs at approximately $11.9 million.

The operation was conducted jointly by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and the Indian Coast Guard after receiving intelligence about a suspected narcotics shipment on a vessel anchored near Mundra Port.

Nighttime Raid Leads to Major Drug Bust

Authorities boarded the container ship shortly before midnight on May 25 after receiving confidential information regarding illegal cargo on board.

According to investigators, several crew members attempted to dispose of evidence by throwing bags into the sea as law enforcement officers boarded the vessel. One crew member reportedly jumped overboard in an apparent attempt to escape.

During the operation, authorities recovered five bags from the water, although one bag was reportedly lost.

Three Crew Members Arrested, One Missing

Following the raid, Indian authorities arrested three crew members suspected of involvement in the smuggling operation.

The crew member who jumped into the sea remains missing. Despite a two-day search and rescue effort, authorities have been unable to locate him and fear he may have drowned.

Drugs Hidden in the Engine Room

According to investigators, the arrested crew members admitted that the cocaine had been stored aboard the vessel since November 2025.

The drugs were reportedly concealed within the engine room area, allowing them to remain undetected during previous port calls and inspections.

Authorities are now examining the vessel’s trading history and voyage records as part of the ongoing investigation.

Authorities Believe They Have Identified a New Smuggling Route

Indian investigators believe the case may have uncovered a previously unknown maritime drug trafficking route linking Latin America and India.

Officials suspect that an international drug trafficking syndicate used commercial shipping services to transport large quantities of cocaine across international waters.

If confirmed, the discovery could reveal a sophisticated smuggling network utilizing merchant vessels and global maritime trade routes to move narcotics into South Asia.

The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out additional arrests as they continue to identify everyone involved in the operation.