Authorities in Odisha, India, have seized a massive 22 kg of cocaine worth a staggering ₹220 crore (approximately $27 million) from an Indonesian cargo ship docked at Paradip Port. The vessel, identified as the MV Debi, was on its way to Denmark to pick up a shipment of steel plates.
Suspicious Packages Discovered by Crane Operator
The discovery of the cocaine was made on Thursday when a crane operator working on the ship noticed several suspicious packages lying on the vessel. He immediately alerted the authorities, who arrived with a dog squad and raided the ship. The packets were subsequently seized and subjected to preliminary narcotics testing, which confirmed the presence of cocaine.
Further Investigation Underway
Officials have stated that the seized cocaine is worth ₹10 crore (approximately $1.2 million) per kilogram in the international market. The crew members of the MV Debi are currently being questioned by investigators, and further arrests are expected. Samples of the cocaine have been sent to a government laboratory for further analysis. This significant seizure represents a major blow to international drug trafficking networks operating in the region. It highlights the ongoing efforts of Indian authorities to combat the illegal drug trade and protect its citizens from the harmful effects of narcotics.
Here are some key takeaways from the story:
- 22 kg of cocaine worth ₹220 crore was seized from an Indonesian cargo ship at Paradip Port in Odisha.
- The cocaine was discovered by a crane operator who alerted authorities.
- The crew of the ship is being questioned and further arrests are likely.
- This seizure represents a major setback for international drug trafficking networks.
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