A security alert has been sounded at Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) after a pro-Pakistan message was discovered scrawled inside a ship currently docked at the facility for maintenance. The incident has prompted an internal investigation and a formal complaint lodged with the Ernakulam South police on Thursday, according to sources. While the police have not yet registered a case, they have initiated a preliminary inquiry into the matter.
Discovery of the Graffiti
The security personnel found the words 'I Love Pakistan' scratched on the internal wall of a vessel over a week ago. The ship had reportedly been brought to the yard for routine maintenance and refitting work. Given the strategic importance of the shipyard, which handles major defence contracts including the construction and maintenance of Navy vessels, the incident is being treated with the utmost seriousness, sources added.
Investigation and Security Measures
A preliminary probe has been launched to identify the individuals who had access to the specific section of the vessel. Investigators are reviewing biometric logs and CCTV footage. They are currently compiling a list of employees, contractual labourers, and ship crew members who boarded the vessel. CSL has temporarily tightened access controls, mandating stricter identity verification at all entry points.
While officials have not ruled out the possibility of a prank by a local worker, sources indicated that central intelligence agencies may join the investigation. The sensitivity of the installation makes any unauthorized entry or act of vandalism a potential breach of national security, they said.
