Indian authorities have issued a legal demand to Elon Musk’s Starlink, seeking information on the purchaser of a satellite internet device linked to a massive methamphetamine smuggling operation. The device was allegedly used by smugglers to navigate a shipment of $4.2 billion worth of methamphetamine, seized in the country’s largest-ever bust.
According to two sources familiar with the matter, officials from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have ordered Starlink to disclose details regarding a suspicious internet device transaction. Specifically, they’re seeking the purchaser’s identity, payment method, registration information, and usage logs, particularly during the device’s employment in international waters between Myanmar and India.
Starlink and Andaman police declined to comment when contacted by Reuters. Meanwhile, the incident has sparked concern, marking the first recorded instance of a Starlink device facilitating a major drug smuggling operation into Indian waters.
The probe coincides with Starlink’s efforts to address security concerns ahead of its planned launch of satellite broadband services in India, where regulatory approval is still pending.
Starlink has just emerged victorious in a fierce lobbying battle against billionaire Mukesh Ambani‘s interests, influencing how New Delhi will allocate satellite spectrum.
In late November, police in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands seized over 6,000 kilograms of methamphetamine from a Myanmar vessel. The smugglers had used a Starlink Mini device, which the company says is designed for international waters.
The seized meth is valued at approximately ₹36,000 crore ($4.25 billion) on the retail market. Andaman police issued a notice on December 4, 2024, under Indian law, compelling Starlink to provide information relevant to the ongoing investigation.
According to two unnamed sources close to the investigation, authorities have also requested the mobile number and email address associated with the Starlink account, citing the sensitive nature of the case.
