Breaking a sophisticated oil trafficking empire, the Indian Coast Guard seized three vessels in a high-stakes Arabian Sea showdown. The February 5-6, 2026, operation, 100 nautical miles from Mumbai, exemplifies precision enforcement against global smuggling.
Advanced sea-air monitoring networks flagged the ships, which were cornerstones of a syndicate hauling low-cost petroleum from unstable countries. In the vast openness of international seas, they executed risky mid-ocean swaps to motor tankers, netting huge illicit profits.
The ring’s international handlers orchestrated seamless logistics, routinely swapping ship IDs to confound law enforcers. Distant owners thrived on this evasion, costing India substantial tax losses from dodged duties.
ICG’s digital systems first spotted a rogue tanker in the Exclusive Economic Zone. Forensic analysis connected it to two partners in crime, launching the pursuit.
February 5 saw ICG craft encircling the targets. Boarding experts invaded, dissecting paperwork, data logs, and crew testimonies. Ironclad evidence prompted the takedown, with vessels now bound for Mumbai amid ongoing probes by customs and allies.
ICG’s feat spotlights its maritime might and surveillance edge. It bolsters India’s commitment to lawful seas, dismantling threats to fiscal health and regional security.