In a coordinated operation, the Indian Navy, with support from the Sri Lankan Navy, successfully intercepted and seized approximately 500 kg of crystal meth from Sri Lankan fishing vessels in the Arabian Sea. The joint effort highlights the growing partnership between the two nations in combating drug trafficking and maintaining security in the Indian Ocean Region. The operation also showcases India's commitment to strengthening its maritime security and coastal defence mechanisms.
India and Sri Lanka Join Forces to Bust Massive Crystal Meth Smuggling Operation
Background
Drug trafficking has long been a major problem in the Indian Ocean Region, with narcotics often being smuggled via maritime routes from Afghanistan and Iran to destinations in Africa, Europe, and Asia. In the past, India and Sri Lanka have collaborated on several occasions to disrupt drug smuggling operations in their shared waters.
Recent Operation
In a coordinated operation on January 25, 2023, the Indian Navy, with support from the Sri Lankan Navy, intercepted and seized approximately 500 kg of crystal methamphetamine from Sri Lankan fishing vessels in the Arabian Sea. The operation was part of a larger effort to combat drug trafficking and maintain security in the region.
Significance
The operation marks a significant achievement in the fight against drug trafficking in the Indian Ocean Region. The seizure of such a large quantity of crystal meth demonstrates the scale of the problem and the determination of both India and Sri Lanka to combat it.
The operation also highlights the growing partnership between India and Sri Lanka in the maritime domain. Both countries share a common interest in maintaining security in the Indian Ocean Region and have been strengthening their cooperation in areas such as intelligence sharing, joint exercises, and maritime capacity building.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is crystal meth?
Crystal meth, also known as methamphetamine, is a highly addictive stimulant drug that is commonly used in crystal form. It can have devastating effects on physical and mental health, leading to addiction, psychosis, and even death.
2. Why is drug trafficking a problem in the Indian Ocean Region?
The Indian Ocean Region is a major transit route for drug trafficking, particularly from Afghanistan, where opium poppies are grown. The drugs are often smuggled via sea to destinations in Africa, Europe, and Asia.
3. What is the significance of the joint operation between India and Sri Lanka?
The joint operation demonstrates the commitment of both countries to combating drug trafficking and maintaining security in the Indian Ocean Region. It also highlights the growing partnership between the two nations in the maritime domain.
4. What are the other ways India is strengthening its maritime security?
India is investing in modernizing its naval fleet, enhancing coastal surveillance, and developing a robust maritime security architecture. The country is also collaborating with other regional partners to strengthen maritime cooperation and information sharing.
5. What are the challenges in combating drug trafficking?
Combating drug trafficking is a complex challenge that requires a multifaceted approach. It involves law enforcement, border security, capacity building, and international cooperation. The illicit drug trade is also often linked to other transnational crimes, such as terrorism and money laundering.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has been issued a contempt notice by a Mumbai court for failing to comply with a court directive to remove a defamatory video targeting the Dhyan Foundation and its founder Yogi Ashwini. The court highlighted YouTube's non-compliance and the continued accessibility of the video, while the NGO accuses Google of intentional inaction and delay tactics, causing harm to Yogi Ashwini's character and the organization's reputation.
A 50-year-old woman in Rajasthan's Bundi district was subjected to two days of torture in an attempt to "free" her from an "evil spirit". The woman was labelled as a witch and subjected to inhuman treatment by a self-proclaimed exorcist and his aides. The incident came to light when the police rescued the woman and arrested the accused based on her statement. The woman was believed to have caused harm to her niece who recently got married in the village.
Pop star Dua Lipa's recent concert in Mumbai caused controversy when she performed a mashup of her hit song Levitating and the Bollywood song Woh Ladki Jo without giving credit to its original singer, Abhijeet Bhattacharya. His son Jay took to social media to call out media outlets for not acknowledging his father's work. Fans were divided on the issue, with some defending Dua Lipa's actions and others calling for her to acknowledge Bhattacharya's contribution.
Chennai airport was hit by strong winds and heavy rainfall as Cyclone Fengal made landfall on Saturday. A video of a flight struggling to land at the airport has gone viral on social media, causing concern among passengers. The Indian Army has stepped in to assist with rescue operations in Puducherry, where extreme weather conditions have led to flash floods and heavy rainfall. Flight operations have now resumed at Chennai airport, but disruptions and cancellations are expected to continue as the cyclone moves west-southwestward.
In a surprise visit to Florida, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had dinner with US President-elect Donald Trump amid concerns over potential trade disputes. The two leaders discussed important topics such as the opioid epidemic and the trade deficit between their countries. While Trump's pledge to impose tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports has sparked fears of a trade war, Trudeau remains committed to working with the US to find a mutually beneficial solution.
Cyclonic Storm Fengal made landfall near Puducherry on Sunday morning, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to the area. According to the India Meteorological Department, the storm has now weakened into a deep depression but is still expected to move west-southwestwards. Residents in the affected areas have been urged to take necessary precautions and follow instructions from local authorities.
In commemoration of the 33rd World AIDS Day on December 1, the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a special theme for 2024 - "Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!" This highlights the importance of human rights in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of ending AIDS by 2030. Despite significant progress, HIV remains incurable and highly contagious, making awareness and prevention crucial in the fight against the disease. The WHO stresses the need to tackle stigma and discrimination in access to treatment, and calls for a commitment to uphold the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable.
The political and security leadership in Pakistan faced a difficult situation as supporters of jailed Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with security forces in the heart of capital Islamabad while foreign delegations were holding talks with officials. The protest, which resulted in six deaths, was held in the "Red Zone" where several high-profile institutions, including the parliament house and prime minister's residence, are located. The clashes coincided with the visit of Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko, who had several meetings scheduled during his stay. In an effort to control the situation, Islamabad was virtually sealed off with containers and barbed wires, causing chaos and disrupting the diplomatic visit.
An Indian man, identified as Deepesh Gohel, was arrested by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad for sharing sensitive information about Coast Guard ships with a Pakistani agent through Facebook. The accused had been in contact with the agent for seven months and received payment of Rs 200 per day for providing information. The accused had been charged with criminal conspiracy against the state and an espionage case has been registered.
The India Meteorological Department has warned of the arrival of cyclone 'Fengal' on Saturday afternoon, close to the city of Puducherry, with wind speeds of up to 90 kmph. Heavy rainfall and gusty winds have already hit several parts of northern Tamil Nadu, causing water logging and affecting normalcy. Residents are taking precautions such as parking their vehicles in safe areas, while authorities have deployed workers and emergency personnel to vulnerable places. The city's transportation services have also been affected, with flight schedules being disrupted and limited public transport services.