The Indian security agencies are concentrating on combating narcotic smuggling originating from the Golden Crescent region of Pakistan-Afghanistan. There has been a significant increase in smuggling activities through the Golden Crescent, with Pakistan attempting to transport large amounts of narcotics into India. This heightened focus on the Golden Crescent indicates efforts by Pakistan-based operatives to raise funds for terrorist activities against India.
Security agency estimates reveal that 65% of narcotics entering India come from the Golden Crescent, while the rest come from the Golden Triangle involving Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand. Notably, Pakistani narcotic smugglers are now directing more drugs towards South India, particularly Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Subsequently, after meeting domestic demands, these drugs are further smuggled into Maldives and Sri Lanka via Gujarat and Maharashtra, aiming to cover both North and South India extensively.
In the northeastern states, cartels from the Golden Triangle manage drug smuggling operations, as per officials. In response to intelligence indicating increased activities by Pakistan-based narcotic smugglers, a high-level meeting was convened involving the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), and the Indian Navy. The decision was made to enhance surveillance to intercept drugs from the Golden Crescent, with a specific focus on high-speed motor boats and smaller fishing vessels.
Recent trends show that cartels are also utilizing commercial shipping containers to smuggle larger drug quantities. The predominant drugs from the Golden Crescent include charas and methamphetamine. In light of the surge in drug smuggling, India is collaborating closely with international agencies to combat this issue effectively. Officials emphasize the importance of international cooperation alongside domestic measures to tackle drug trafficking.
While efforts to curb drug smuggling persist, recent reports indicate a decline in activities over the past three months. Vigilance has been heightened, with multiple agencies working in coordination to combat the menace. Disruptions in the Golden Crescent supply chains due to regional stability, along with India’s proactive stance, are contributing to the fight against drug trafficking. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a drug-free India has been underscored, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasizing the need for a comprehensive roadmap and time-bound review mechanism to achieve this goal.
An Intelligence Bureau official highlighted the interconnected nature of cartels from the Golden Crescent and the Golden Triangle, stressing the necessity for coordinated efforts by multiple agencies to address these challenges effectively.
