The Coast Guard on Friday (April 11, 2025) intercepted and apprehended an Indian fishing boat ‘Maa Basanti’ and recovered 400–450 gunny bags of Betel nuts, each weighing 50-60 kg, in what is suspected to be a case of illegal smuggling.
The Coast Guard on Friday (April 11, 2025) intercepted and apprehended an Indian fishing boat ‘Maa Basanti’ approximately 72 nautical miles from Sagar Light, within the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and recovered 400–450 gunny bags of Betel nuts, each weighing 50-60 kg, in what is suspected to be a case of illegal smuggling.
“The total weight of the consignment is currently under verification. A total of 14 crew members were present on board at the time of apprehension,” it said in a statement.
Following standard procedures, ‘Maa Basanti’ was escorted to Paradip Port by ICG Ship, and the vessel and its crew are to be handed over to the Customs authorities for further investigation and necessary legal action, the Cost Guard added.
Published – April 11, 2025 07:18 pm IST