ICG Busts International Oil Smuggling Racket Off Mumbai Coast
Mumbai: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has busted an international oil smuggling racket following a major sea-air network–centric operation, exposing a sophisticated modus operandi used to traffic illicit oil and oil-based cargo from conflict-ridden regions.
According to official sources, the operation was launched after the interception of three suspect vessels located about 100 nautical miles west of Mumbai on the 5th of this month. The coordinated operation culminated yesterday, with the ICG successfully unraveling the entire smuggling network.
Investigations revealed that the smugglers were engaged in mid-sea transfers of large quantities of cheap oil and oil-based cargo to motor tankers in international waters. These clandestine transfers were aimed at disguising the origin of the cargo and generating substantial illegal profits in global markets.
The ICG established the complete chain of events through sustained rummaging of the vessels, verification of ship documents, analysis of electronic data, and detailed interrogation of the crew members involved. This comprehensive approach enabled authorities to map the operational network and confirm the international dimensions of the racket.
Officials said the successful operation underscores the Indian Coast Guard’s enhanced surveillance capabilities and its commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests, preventing transnational crimes at sea, and ensuring maritime security along the western seaboard.
Further investigations are underway, and appropriate legal action is being initiated against those involved.
