New Delhi/IBNS: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), acting on the basis of intelligence input by ATS Gujarat, has jointly apprehended a Pakistani boat with six crew in Indian waters carrying approximately 50 kgs of heroin worth Rs. 350 crores.

"During the night of Oct 22, on a specific intelligence input, ICG strategically deployed two fast interceptor classes of ships, C-429 and C-454 for patrolling in an area close to the national International Maritime Border Line (IMBL)," an official statement said.

"At midnight, a Pakistani Boat was observed moving suspiciously in Indian waters, 5 nm inside notional IMBL and 40 nm from Jakhau. On being challenged, the Pakistani boat started evasive manoeuvring," the Indian Coast Guard stated.

"However, both the ships intercepted the Pakistani boat and forced it to stop. On boarding the boat, thorough rummaging was undertaken during which 50 kg of narcotics, believed to be heroin was found concealed in five gunny bags," it added.

The market value of the seized narcotics is estimated to be Rs.350 crores.

The ICG ships braved very rough seas on the pitch-dark night and marginal weather conditions during the entire operation.

The boat has been brought to Jakhau for a further joint investigation by all agencies.