In the relentless war against narcotics, authorities often employ covert strategies to intercept and neutralize drug trafficking networks. Operation Namkeen, orchestrated by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), stands as a remarkable testament to such endeavors. 

In this comprehensive article, we will unravel the intricacies of Operation Namkeen, the pivotal role played by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, and the ongoing battle against narcotic menace.

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Operation Namkeen Unveiled

Operation Namkeen is an investigative mission executed by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) to tackle the illicit trade of narcotics. The mission gained widespread attention when DRI agents unearthed a massive cocaine consignment, weighing a staggering 52 kg, with an estimated street value exceeding Rs 500 crore, at Mundra Port in Gujarat. This audacious operation showcases the relentless commitment of DRI in combating drug-related crimes.

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The Intelligence Web

The inception of Operation Namkeen was predicated on meticulous data analysis and comprehensive field surveillance. DRI's intelligence machinery had detected suspicious consignments arriving from Iran, prompting a swift and covert response. This preemptive approach was instrumental in identifying a specific consignment, ostensibly containing 1,000 bags of common salt with a gross weight of 25 MT, imported at Mundra port from Iran, for further scrutiny.

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Detailed Examination

Upon flagging the consignment, DRI agents subjected it to a thorough examination. The contents of the bags, shrouded in deception, were sent to the Directorate of Forensic Sciences, Government of Gujarat, for scientific validation. The results bore a startling revelation - the presence of cocaine. Thus far, 52 kg of this illicit substance had been successfully confiscated, with examination and seizure proceedings underway under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.

A Glance at DRI's Remarkable Track Record

Operation Namkeen is just one chapter in DRI's tireless fight against narcotics. In the fiscal year 2021-22 alone, DRI's nationwide operations resulted in the seizure of a colossal 321 kg of cocaine, valued at over Rs. 3,200 crore in the international illicit market. This remarkable track record underscores the significance of DRI in curbing the inflow of narcotics into the country.

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The Powerhouse: Directorate of Revenue Intelligence

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) was established on December 4, 1957, with a singular mission - countering the menace of smuggling. Over the decades, DRI has evolved into the premier intelligence agency under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs, earning the trust of international and national agencies. DRI's intelligence capabilities span diverse areas, from counterfeit currency (FICN) to narcotics, gold, arms and ammunition, wildlife, cultural heritage, and commercial fraud.

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Adapting to New Challenges

As the challenges of the modern world shift and morph, DRI remains agile and adaptable. It has embraced new and emerging challenges, including black money, money laundering, and narco-terrorism. Additionally, DRI has been designated as the lead agency for S-CORD, the national Anti-smuggling coordination center. Its ability to effectively detect and intercept such seizures acts as a potent deterrent to those seeking to compromise India's economic frontiers.

Operation Namkeen serves as a beacon of hope in the ongoing struggle against narcotics, highlighting the dedication and unwavering resolve of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence in safeguarding the nation's well-being and economic integrity.

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