Indian police probe Starlink in maritime drug bust

Indian police are investigating how a Starlink satellite internet device was used in a massive drug smuggling operation. Officers in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands seized over 6,000 kilograms of methamphetamine, worth an estimated $4.25 billion, from a Myanmar vessel last week. Six Myanmar nationals were detained in what has become the largest drug bust in the region’s history.

Authorities revealed the smugglers relied on a Starlink device to navigate the deep seas and evade detection. Starlink, which provides internet coverage in international waters, has yet to formally launch in India, pending government approvals. Investigators aim to trace the device’s purchase and usage history to uncover potential links to smuggling networks.

The Starlink Mini, a portable satellite kit described as compact enough to fit in a backpack, was reportedly used during the entire journey from Myanmar. Police suspect the device bypassed traditional communication methods by creating a Wi-Fi hotspot, complicating surveillance efforts. Starlink has not commented on the incident.

Meth trafficking via maritime routes has surged across Asia, with record seizures reported in 2023. Police in India are now probing connections to both local and international criminal syndicates in this case.