NAGAPATTINAM: PIB, The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 137 kg of suspected crystal methamphetamine in Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district and arrested four people for their alleged involvement in a coastal drug trafficking network, according to the Government of India’s Press Information Bureau (PIB).
The seizure was made during an intelligence-led operation conducted on October 16 and 17. Officials suspect the consignment was intended to be smuggled to Sri Lanka through a maritime route involving a transfer at sea.
The estimated value of the seized drugs in the illicit market exceeds ₹100 crore, according to the official release.
137 Kg of Suspected Crystal Meth Recovered
- Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officers conducted surveillance and searched a coastal location in Nagapattinam district.
- Officials recovered six duffel bags containing 27 silver-foil packets of a white crystalline substance suspected to be high-purity methamphetamine. The substance had a reported gross weight of 137 kg.
- The contraband was seized under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Cash and Vehicles Also Seized
- During a simultaneous search at premises linked to the suspected organiser, officers seized ₹10 lakh in cash, which investigators suspect may represent proceeds from drug trafficking.
- Authorities also seized two four wheelers and one two wheeler allegedly used to transport the consignment.
- According to the DRI, the operation uncovered suspected links involving the organisation, transportation, storage and logistical arrangements for the planned movement of the drugs.
Four Arrested, Investigation Continues
- Four people have been arrested under the NDPS Act and remanded to judicial custody, the official release stated.
- Investigators are examining the suspected network and its alleged plans to move the consignment towards Sri Lanka through a mid-sea transfer. Further investigation is expected to establish the roles of the arrested individuals and identify any additional persons involved.
DRI Steps Up Action Against Drug Trafficking
- The seizure highlights enforcement efforts to prevent India’s coastline from being used for the movement of illegal narcotics.
- Methamphetamine is a powerful synthetic stimulant and its illicit production, possession and trafficking are subject to strict legal penalties in India.
- The investigation into the Nagapattinam seizure remains ongoing.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, October 18, 2026.
