Indian police are investigating a shocking case of high-tech smuggling, where Starlink, the satellite internet service created by Elon Musk’s company, SpaceX, was allegedly used to navigate a massive methamphetamine shipment worth $4.25 billion. This case involves one of the largest drug busts in India’s history.
Last week, security forces in India’s remote Andaman and Nicobar Islands discovered a staggering 6,000 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden on a boat that had traveled from Myanmar. Six Myanmar nationals aboard the vessel were arrested on suspicion of smuggling.
But this isn’t just another drug bust—police say the smugglers used Starlink to help them navigate across international waters without relying on traditional communication networks, which could have been traced more easily.
How Starlink Played a Role
According to Hargobinder S. Dhaliwal, a senior police officer leading the investigation, the smugglers used Starlink devices to create a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing them to communicate and navigate without detection. Traditional methods of using mobile phones or radio signals would have been more vulnerable to being tracked.
“This case is different because it bypasses all the legal communication channels,” Dhaliwal explained. “They were directly operating with satellites.”
Dhaliwal also revealed plans to contact Elon Musk’s company to gather crucial details, such as who purchased the Starlink device, when it was activated, and its usage history. So far, Starlink has not commented on the matter.
A High-Stakes Investigation
Indian authorities are now looking deeper into the case to determine if this smuggling operation is tied to any larger criminal networks, either local or international. With such a significant drug seizure, investigators are examining every possible angle.
This case also raises questions about the unintended misuse of advanced technologies like Starlink. While satellite internet is designed to improve global connectivity, it seems it can also provide tools for criminals to evade detection.
The Timing Couldn’t Be Worse for Starlink
Interestingly, this incident comes at a critical time for Starlink in India. The company has been working to secure government approval to officially launch its satellite broadband services in the country.
India’s Telecom Minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, recently acknowledged Starlink’s efforts to obtain the necessary licenses. “When you check all the boxes, you get the license. If they do that, we will be very happy,” Scindia said.
However, this incident could complicate matters. Starlink’s operations in territorial waters require government approval, but it’s unclear if the smugglers exploited any loopholes to use the service illegally.
A Battle for Satellite Internet in India
Adding to the tension is the competition in India’s satellite broadband space. Indian telecom giant Mukesh Ambani had previously pushed for a spectrum auction rather than the government administratively allocating it. The government eventually chose the latter option, paving the way for companies like Starlink to enter the market.
The Bigger Picture
This case highlights both the power and the risks of cutting-edge technology. While satellite internet has the potential to connect remote areas and revolutionize communication, it can also become a tool for illegal activities.
The investigation is ongoing, and with authorities set to approach SpaceX for more information, this story could have far-reaching consequences—not just for the smuggling ring but also for the future of satellite internet in India.
As the world watches, one thing is clear: the intersection of technology and crime is creating new challenges for law enforcement.
