Indian Coast Guard Cracks Down on Diesel Smuggling Off Maharashtra Coast
Indian Coast Guard apprehends an Indian fishing boat with unauthorised cash, reportedly involved in diesel smuggling, off Maharashtra coast
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has successfully intercepted an Indian fishing boat carrying unauthorized cash and suspected of engaging in diesel smuggling activities. The operation took place 83 nautical miles northwest off Mumbai, Maharashtra. Following intelligence from Customs, ICG Regional Headquarters (West) initiated a demanding night operation amid heavy fishing and merchant traffic. The area spanned over 200 square miles, including offshore development regions.
During the night of April 15, 2024, the ICG deployed two Fast Patrol Vessels and one Interceptor Boat to locate and board the suspect vessel. The preliminary investigation disclosed that the boat, with a crew of five, had left Mandwa port on April 14, intending to meet with Indian Offshore Supply Vessels (OSV) for illicit diesel transactions. The boat was equipped with modified holds capable of storing up to 20,000 litres of fuel and was operating under false identities. Discrepancies were noted in the vessel’s registration through data correlation.
Upon seizure, Rs 11.46 lakh was discovered aboard, intended as payment to an OSV in exchange for smuggled diesel. The vessel was escorted to Mumbai anchorage early on April 17, 2024. A comprehensive joint investigation is underway involving the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, Customs, and State Police to determine further linkages and pursue subsequent legal actions.