700 kg of methamphetamine Drug Seizure in Gujarat's Porbandar

1. On 15th November 2024, a joint operation by the Indian Navy, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), and Gujarat Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) led to the seizure of about 700 kg of methamphetamine (a type of illegal drug) from a boat near Porbandar, Gujarat.
2. 8 people (part of an international drug smuggling group) were arrested and taken for questioning by the Special Operations Group (SOG).

Do you know? Sonali Phogat (Actor and a Politician) was killed by giving the recreational drug methamphetamine in feb 2022. She died after a heart attack caused by an overdose of methamphetamine.

Details of the Operation:

1. Operation Name: This action is part of a larger effort called Sagar Manthan, which involves several agencies working together to stop drug trafficking.
2. Tip-off and Raid: The operation was based on a tip-off received by the NCB about a suspicious boat coming from Iranian waters.
3. The boat was stopped at night in the middle of the sea near Porbandar, and the drugs were found hidden on it.
4. Drugs Found: The drugs seized were mostly methamphetamine.
5. The arrested people did not have any documents on them, and authorities are checking their identities.
6. They claim to have come from Iran.

Agencies Involved:

1. Indian Navy: The Navy played an important role in stopping the boat at sea as part of its ongoing efforts to protect India’s coastline from illegal activities.
2. NCB: The NCB was in charge of gathering intelligence and coordinating the operation.
3. Gujarat ATS: The Gujarat Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) helped in seizing the drugs and arresting the suspects.

Importance of the Operation:

1. 2nd Major Operation: This is the 2nd major anti-drug operation at sea by the Indian Navy this year.
   • 1st major anti-drug operation: Indian Navy and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in February 2024, seized around (3089 Kgs Charas, 158 Kgs Methamphetamine 25 Kgs Morphine) from a ship near Gujarat's Porbandar, making it the biggest such drug seizure
2. Impact on Drug Trafficking: The seizure is a big blow to international drug gangs that smuggle drugs into India.
3. Results of Sagar Manthan: So far, the joint operations under Sagar Manthan have led to the seizure of about 3,700 kg of drugs in 2024.
4. International Cooperation: The success of this operation suggests that countries may need to work together to stop drug smuggling, especially between India, Iran, and other neighboring regions.

What Is Methamphetamine?

Methamphetamine (often called meth) is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant drug. It affects the brain and body by increasing levels of dopamine, a chemical that plays a key role in feelings of pleasure and reward.

1. Appearance: Methamphetamine is usually found in the form of a white, odorless powder or a crystal. It's sometimes called crystal meth when in its crystal form.
2. How It's Used: People can take meth by smoking, snorting, or injecting it, all of which lead to a rapid and intense "high."
3. Effects on the Body:
   1. It increases energy, making users feel more awake, alert, and euphoric.
   2. It can lead to dangerous health problems, like heart problems, high blood pressure, and damage to the brain.
   3. It’s known for being highly addictive, which means users often feel the need to keep taking it, leading to a cycle of dependency.

Why Is Methamphetamine Dangerous?

1. Addiction: One of the main risks of methamphetamine is its addictive nature. People who use it can quickly become dependent on the drug.
2. Mental and Physical Damage: Long-term use can cause serious damage to the brain, affecting memory, emotions, and decision-making. It can also harm other organs and lead to serious health issues.
3. Illegal Status: Methamphetamine is illegal in most countries, including India, and is often produced and trafficked by criminal groups.

Common Street Names for Methamphetamine:

1. Crystal Meth
2. Ice
3. Crank
4. Glass

In conclusion, methamphetamine is a dangerous drug that has harmful effects on both the mind and body, and its illegal use is a major public health concern.

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