In a major crackdown on maritime contraband movement towards Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu police disrupted two separate smuggling attempts across Ramanathapuram and Tuticorin coastal belts. The operations resulted in the seizure of 290 kilograms of cannabis, the arrest of two individuals, and the recovery of livestock, pigeons, and an unregistered double-engine fiber vessel intended for illegal transit across the sea border. Total property seized in the operations has been valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh.
Early Morning Raid in Ramanathapuram Yields 290 kg Cannabis
The initial interception took place in the Uchipuli zone of Ramanathapuram district following precise intelligence gathered by the Rameswaram Sub-Divisional Crime Branch. Authorities were alerted to suspicious movements indicating that a large consignment of cannabis was being prepared for dispatch towards Sri Lanka via the Prabhan Valasai beach route. Acting on the tip-off, police launched a thorough search operation starting at around 4:00 AM.
During the search, officers intercepted a suspicious van navigating the area. A detailed inspection of the vehicle uncovered approximately 290 kg of cannabis concealed within interior compartments. Preliminary investigations established that the narcotics were slated for illicit shipment across maritime routes.
Interrogation of Arrested Suspects Traces Cross-Border Network
Following the discovery, law enforcement officers took two suspects into custody on the spot. The arrested individuals have been identified as 24-year-old P. Dinesh, a resident of Attangara North Street in Ramanathapuram, and 22-year-old S. Kalanjeeswaran, residing in the Pillai Math locality of Mandapam.
Formal cases have been registered against both individuals. Investigating officials are currently probing their linkages to broader cross-border illegal networks, attempting to trace the origin of the cannabis supply as well as the intended handlers on the receiving end in Sri Lanka.
Late-Night Operations in Tuticorin Intercept Illegal Livestock Shipment
In a second raid, the Special Intelligence Wing 'Q' Branch of the Tamil Nadu Police targeted the Therespuram Anna Colony beach in Tuticorin district. Intelligence reports suggested that animals were being gathered on the shore for illegal transport across the Gulf of Mannar into Sri Lanka.
The raid was supervised by 'Q' Branch Inspector Vijaya Anitha. The operating team comprised Sub-Inspector Ramachandran, Special Sub-Inspector Ramar, Head Constables Irudhaya Rajakumar and Isakkimuthu, along with Constables Palani, Balamurugan, and Pechi Raja.
Manhunt Launched for Fleeing Smugglers and Boat Owner
At approximately 9:45 PM on August 6, the tactical team observed suspects loading 8 goats and 3 boxes containing live pigeons onto an unregistered double-engine fiber boat anchored along the shoreline. Upon sighting approaching officers, the suspects fled into the darkness, abandoning the vessel and the animals.
The police team secured the 8 goats, 3 boxes of pigeons, and the double-engine boat. Senior officers confirmed that the total estimated market value of the confiscated property stands at nearly Rs 10 lakh. A formal investigation is underway to track down the fleeing suspects and identify the registered owner of the seized fiber boat.
