Investigative Report: Maritime Drug Seizures, Indian Ports & Violence Targeting Gujarati Community in the US

Recent events in the Indian Ocean, at Indian ports, and within the US-based Gujarati community have highlighted a concerning nexus of narcotics trafficking, business vulnerabilities, and geopolitical implications. This report consolidates publicly available information, providing a fact-based overview while highlighting areas that require further investigation.

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1. Major Maritime Drug Seizures

The Indian Ocean has emerged as a key transit point for global narcotics trafficking, prompting several major interdiction operations:

• In October 2025, the Pakistan Navy, operating under the Saudi-led Combined Task Force 150, seized narcotics worth approximately $972 million in the Arabian Sea. Source: Arab News
• A French warship intercepted $108 million in drugs from fishing vessels in international waters. Source: Naval Today
• The US Coast Guard, working with Combined Maritime Forces, seized 2,000 kg of hashish and 384 kg of methamphetamine in the Gulf of Oman, valued at $21 million. Source: US Navy Press Office

Pakistan Navy seizes drugs worth nearly $1 billion in the Arabian Sea. Source

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2. Drug Seizures at Indian Ports

India has seen major seizures of narcotics at its ports, particularly in Gujarat:

• In 2021, authorities seized 2,988 kg of heroin at Adani’s Mundra Port. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) linked the consignment to funding for the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Source: Indian Express
• Over the last five years, Gujarat and Maharashtra ports accounted for the majority of ~₹11,300 crore worth of drug seizures. Adani Ports (Mundra) consistently reported the largest hauls. Source: The Wire
• Following these incidents, Adani Ports announced restrictions on cargo from Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iran. Source: Times of India

2,988 kg heroin seizure at Adani’s Mundra Port linked to LeT terror funding. Source

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3. Violence Targeting Gujarati Business Owners in the US

Several violent incidents involving Gujarati-origin motel and convenience store owners have occurred in the US, many linked to late-night business operations or suspected drug-related activity:

• Rakesh Patel, a motel manager from Surat, was shot dead in Pittsburgh while addressing a disturbance. The shooter later engaged in a gunfight with police. Source: Times of India
• Pradeep Patel and his daughter were shot during a robbery at their South Carolina store in March 2025. Source: NDTV
• Kiran Patel, a convenience store owner in Union County, South Carolina, was killed in a targeted robbery attempt. Source: Times of India

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4. Political and Geopolitical Implications

Media reports and political analysts have speculated about potential diplomatic pressure involving India and the United States regarding drug trafficking. Some reports suggest discussions on strategic trade, narcotics interdiction, and political decisions. No verified public evidence exists linking these events directly to coercion or blackmail of political leaders. Source: Akshat Substack

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5. Conclusion

The documented incidents in maritime interdictions, Indian ports, and the US-based Gujarati community reflect the extensive reach of international narcotics networks and the vulnerabilities of cash-based businesses. While public reporting highlights patterns of concern, direct links to political coercion or financing remain unsubstantiated.

Ongoing investigative efforts, cross-border law enforcement cooperation, and forensic financial analysis are essential to fully understand the scope of these operations and their implications for regional security and political accountability.

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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and media reports. It does not assert unproven criminal involvement of any individuals or entities.