On the morning of June 20, 2024, Gujarat Customs officials at Mundra Port in Kutch district intercepted a significant consignment of illegal narcotics concealed within a shipment of industrial goods. The operation, conducted in coordination with the Gujarat Police’s Crime Branch and the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), led to the seizure of over 150 kilograms of contraband drugs and the arrest of four individuals suspected to be part of an extensive drug trafficking network operating through the state’s largest port.
What Happened — Full Details
The drug bust occurred during routine cargo inspections carried out at Mundra Port, India’s largest private port facility managed by Adani Ports and SEZ Limited. Customs officials noticed suspicious packaging within a container declared as carrying metal machinery parts bound for a foreign destination. Upon closer examination and use of advanced scanning technology, officials discovered hidden compartments containing packets of heroin and methamphetamine with an estimated street value exceeding ₹15 crore.
The seized narcotics comprised approximately 90 kilograms of heroin and 65 kilograms of methamphetamine, both highly addictive substances banned under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. The haul is one of the largest drug seizures in Kutch district in recent years.
The operation involved multiple agencies. The Gujarat Police Crime Branch from Gandhidham and the NCB’s regional unit in Ahmedabad provided intelligence support and investigative backup. The coordinated effort underscores the state’s commitment to curbing drug trafficking through international trade routes.
Who Was Arrested / Accused
Following the bust, four suspects were detained on charges of drug trafficking and conspiracy. The accused are:
- Ramesh Patel, 42, resident of Mundra town, a logistics operator allegedly coordinating shipments.
- Manoj Kumar Singh, 35, from Ahmedabad, suspected financier and organizer.
- Salim Sheikh, 29, a dock worker employed at Mundra Port, believed to have facilitated container access.
- Jyoti Desai, 31, a local courier agent, reportedly involved in communication and coordination.
All four have been booked under Sections 21 and 22 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, and relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code related to conspiracy and illegal possession.
The accused remain in judicial custody at the Kutch Sessions Court, Gandhidham, pending further investigation.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case has been registered at the Mundra Police Station under FIR No. 112/2024. The Gujarat Police Crime Branch has taken over the investigation, working closely with the NCB and Customs authorities.
Analytical tests on the seized substances have been completed at the Forensic Science Laboratory in Gandhinagar, confirming the purity levels of the heroin and methamphetamine. Investigators are scrutinizing shipping manifests, transaction records, and communication logs seized during raids at multiple locations in Ahmedabad and Mundra.
The prosecution is preparing to file a charge sheet by early July 2024. The accused face stringent penalties, including life imprisonment and heavy fines, if convicted under the NDPS Act.
Authorities are also tracking the broader network believed to be operating across Gujarat and neighboring states, utilizing port facilities for smuggling narcotics disguised as legal cargo.
Background and Prior Incidents
Mundra Port has previously been a focal point in Gujarat’s efforts to combat drug trafficking due to its strategic location and extensive container traffic. In 2022, a similar bust of 80 kilograms of cocaine was reported, resulting in a crackdown on port security protocols.
Gujarat’s coastal districts, including Kutch and Surat, have witnessed increased vigilance following the Gujarat Police’s 2023 launch of the Cyber Crime Helpline to address online drug sales and related crimes. The state government’s enhanced collaboration with central agencies has improved intelligence sharing and enforcement.
As part of broader efforts, the Gujarat government amended the Factory Act in 2023, indirectly impacting labor conditions at port facilities and warehouses, which may influence illicit activities by improving worker oversight.
Official Response and Community Impact
Deputy Commissioner of Customs, Mundra Port, Mr. Anil Mehta, stated, “This seizure is a testament to the rigorous checks and inter-agency coordination in place. We remain committed to ensuring Mundra Port is not exploited for illegal activities.”
Kutch District Superintendent of Police, Ms. Kavita Joshi, added, “The arrests send a strong message to criminal networks targeting Gujarat’s ports. The community’s safety and lawfulness are our priority.”
The bust has been welcomed by local industry leaders and residents, concerned about the social impact of narcotics trafficking in the region. Community groups are urging for increased awareness programs, especially targeting youth vulnerable to drug abuse.
What You Should Do:
- Report Suspicious Activity: Citizens and port workers are encouraged to report any unusual cargo handling or communication to the Mundra Police Station (Tel: 02836-XXXXXX) or via the Gujarat Police Cyber Crime Helpline.
- Stay Informed: Follow official channels for updates on drug-related laws and safety advisories.
- Support Rehabilitation: Community members can connect with local NGOs offering support to those affected by substance abuse.
This coordinated crackdown reflects Gujarat’s proactive stance against narcotics trafficking, protecting both its economic interests and social fabric.
For further information or to report concerns, contact the Mundra Customs Office or the Gujarat Police Crime Branch, Gandhidham.