Rs 4.5 Billion Cocaine Haul Seized on Greek Tanker in Major Port Operation

A massive joint operation led to the seizure of approximately 400 kilogrammes of cocaine on November 9, with an estimated street value of over Rs 4.5 billion, following the interception of a Greek oil tanker, the Alpha Bravery. The dramatic operation, which saw the port transformed into a “fortress,” is a major blow against international drug trafficking.

High Seas Interception

The illicit cargo was discovered following an alert from the vessel’s captain. The tanker, carrying 23 crew members including five women, was en route from Brazil to Singapore when the captain reported finding suspicious packages in the machine room on Friday, November 7, afternoon.

Mauritian authorities were tipped off about the discovery by a local maritime agency. ASP Suhail Lidialam, head of the Police Press Office (PPO), confirmed that a coordinated operation was immediately launched.

The National Coast Guard (NCG) intercepted the Alpha Bravery on the high seas and escorted it into Mauritian territorial waters.

Mauritian commandos took control of the ship overnight from Saturday to Sunday, securing the area where the drugs were concealed before bringing the vessel to port.

Port Mobilisation and Investigation

November 9, around 2:30 pm, the port saw a major mobilisation. Elements of the Groupement d’intervention de la police mauricienne (GIPM) and the Special Mobile Force (SMF) provided security and transported the 15 seized packages, wrapped in white sacks, to the offices of the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU) for examination.

The seizure was a joint effort between the NCG and the ADSU, supported by specialised units.

The ADSU, assisted by the Maritime Intelligence Cell and the DCIU, is now leading an investigation to determine the exact origin of the shipment and the network involved.

Initial indications suggest a South American origin. The tanker remains immobilised at sea under tight surveillance.

Source: l’Express