Major Pan-India Drug Network Busted in Joint Police Operation
In a significant crackdown on international drug trafficking, the Telangana Police's specialized EAGLE force, in collaboration with Delhi Police's crime branch, has apprehended 50 Nigerian nationals, including women, for their alleged involvement in a widespread drug peddling network operating across India.
Month-Long Covert Operation
The clandestine operation, conducted over the past few days, revealed the extensive reach of a drug network operating from Delhi and spreading to multiple cities including Noida, Gwalior, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, and Goa. Based on crucial leads from previous cases and in pursuit of wanted accused in multiple drug-related offenses, the EAGLE force deployed a contingent of 120 policemen to Delhi a month ago.
During the month-long surveillance operation, special forces teams maintained close watch in various areas where the wanted Nigerian drug peddlers were residing. The operation culminated in coordinated raids at 20 different locations across Delhi, including Mehrauli, Sant Garh, Pratap Enclave, Prithvi Park, Nilothi, Chandra Nagar, and Munirka.
Massive Seizures and Arrests
Following the arrests of the 50 Nigerian nationals from different areas of Delhi, authorities seized substantial quantities of drugs including cocaine and methamphetamine. The total quantity of seizures is yet to be officially announced as the operation continues to unfold.
Visual evidence from the operation showed plainclothes officers entering residential areas, with each Nigerian suspect being escorted by one to two policemen during their transfer to the Delhi crime branch office. The operation involved approximately 200 police personnel in total, demonstrating the scale and importance of this anti-narcotics mission.
Officials confirmed that besides drugs, they also recovered banking kits and other material evidence from the foreign nationals. Investigations revealed that the arrested individuals were found to be overstaying their visas in India and were allegedly part of an organized Nigerian drug cartel.
Legal Proceedings and Deportation Considerations
Authorities are currently deliberating on whether to register criminal cases against the arrested individuals or proceed with their deportation to Nigeria. Most of the apprehended drug peddlers are likely to face deportation proceedings, according to sources familiar with the operation.
The successful joint operation highlights the growing cooperation between state police forces in tackling international drug networks operating within India. The Telangana Police's EAGLE force, known for its specialized anti-drug operations, has demonstrated its capability to conduct complex inter-state investigations leading to significant breakthroughs in combating organized drug crime.
As the investigation continues, officials remain tight-lipped about potential further developments, but confirmed that the operation is still active, suggesting possible additional arrests and seizures in the coming days.
