In a major operation involving the Odisha Police, the Central Industrial Security Force (CIDSF), and Customs officials, a staggering 22 kilograms of cocaine, estimated to be worth ₹220 crore, was seized from an Indonesian cargo ship docked at Paradip Port in Odisha.
The customs officials in Bhubaneswar disclosed that the Indonesian bulk carrier, MV Debi, had recently anchored at the Paradip International Cargo Terminal berth en route to Denmark for loading steel plates. However, suspicions arose when a crane operator working aboard the vessel noticed peculiar packets and promptly alerted the authorities. Acting swiftly, law enforcement officials, accompanied by a canine unit, conducted a raid on the ship, leading to the discovery and subsequent seizure of these packets.
Commissioner Madhab Chandra Mishra of the Bhubaneswar customs highlighted the initial uncertainty surrounding the suspicious packets, initially believed to be explosive devices. However, subsequent scanning unveiled small rectangular packets containing concealed drugs. A preliminary narcotics test confirmed the presence of cocaine within the packets. Mishra confirmed the seizure and mentioned that samples have been sent for further testing at a government laboratory.
The international market value of cocaine is estimated at ₹10 crore per kilogram, underscoring the enormity of the seized consignment.
Mishra also indicated that the crew members of MV Debi would undergo interrogation regarding the discovery of the cocaine. Further arrests are anticipated in connection with this high-profile drug bust.
The seizure marks a significant breakthrough in the efforts to combat drug trafficking, highlighting the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies in thwarting illegal activities within port premises and underscores the ongoing challenges faced in curbing narcotics smuggling.
