NCB Dismantles Transnational Drug Syndicate in Major Multi-State Operation
In a significant blow to international narcotics trafficking, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has successfully dismantled a sophisticated drug smuggling network that spanned from Nepal to Sri Lanka through India. This operation, part of the government's "Nasha Mukt Bharat" (Drug-Free India) initiative, resulted in the seizure of a massive haul of narcotics and the arrest of five key individuals, including a Sri Lankan refugee.
Massive Seizure and Arrests in Coordinated Crackdown
The multi-state operation, executed by the NCB's Chennai and Hyderabad Zonal Units, led to the confiscation of 77.60 kg of Hashish Oil and 2 kg of Charas, with a combined street value estimated at approximately Rs. 10 Crore. The arrests mark a critical step in disrupting the flow of illegal drugs across South Asian borders.
Interception on Bengaluru–Hyderabad Highway Triggers Investigation
The breakthrough occurred on March 3, 2026, when NCB Hyderabad officers intercepted a Tata Safari Storme at the Raikal Toll Plaza on the Bengaluru–Hyderabad Highway. A thorough search revealed 2 kg of Charas concealed within specially fabricated cavities in the vehicle. The two occupants, residents of Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, were immediately taken into custody.
During interrogations, the suspects disclosed that the contraband had been smuggled into India from Kathmandu, Nepal, via the Sonauli border. They further revealed that a much larger shipment of Hashish Oil had already been transported to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu for maritime delivery to Sri Lanka.
Swift Action Thwarts Maritime Smuggling Attempt
Acting on this intelligence, NCB Chennai swiftly tracked down the remaining consignment in Tamil Nadu, seizing nearly 78 kg of Hashish Oil and arresting three additional individuals. Investigations uncovered a detailed plan to transport the drugs through coastal waters using a fishing boat for a mid-sea transfer to a Sri Lankan receiver.
In a coordinated effort with the Indian Coast Guard, authorities intercepted the suspect fishing boat near the International Maritime Boundary Line, effectively thwarting the cross-border smuggling attempt. Along with the boat, officials seized two cars and a motorbike used by the syndicate for logistics and transportation.
Kingpin Identified and Ongoing Investigations
Preliminary findings have identified a Sri Lankan national based in Sri Lanka as the alleged kingpin who financed and coordinated the entire logistics chain from Nepal. This successful bust adds to a series of recent victories for NCB Chennai, which has seized over 970 kg of Ganja and other synthetic drugs valued at Rs. 12.5 Crores since the beginning of the year.
As investigations continue to trace the financial trails and identify remaining members of the network, officials have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the MANAS National Narcotics Helpline at 1933. This operation underscores the NCB's commitment to combating drug trafficking and safeguarding national security.
