In a major operation, Telangana Police’s elite anti-narcotics force ‘EAGLE’ in collaboration with NCB, Delhi Police Crime Branch and local police has busted the multi-state network of a major Nigerian drug cartel operating in India.
More than 50 illegally staying Nigerian nationals were arrested in simultaneous raids at 20 locations in Delhi, while key operators of the cartel were also caught in Noida, Gwalior and Visakhapatnam.
Huge quantity of drugs recovered at four locations
In this operation, 5340 ecstasy pills, 250 grams of cocaine, 109 grams of heroin and 250 grams of methamphetamine have been recovered from four locations, whose value is estimated to be more than Rs 3.5 crore. Police have also seized a huge amount of cash. The investigation has identified 59 mule accounts and 16 major cartel hubs in Delhi, while 107 bank accounts linked to this drug syndicate have been frozen.
Was supplying drugs all over India
Investigation has revealed that this cartel was supplying drugs to more than 2000 customers and smugglers across India. Hundreds of mule bank accounts were used to transfer money, which were handed over to Nigerian handlers. Drugs were sent from many Delhi colonies including Lado Sarai, Mehrauli, Sant Garh, Pratap Enclave, Nilothi, Munirka.
Drugs were sent hidden in shoes and clothes
These drugs were sent hidden in courier packets of shoes, clothes, cosmetics and slippers. The cartel used companies like Shree Maruti Couriers, DTDC, Professional Couriers, Shiprocket, India Post, Delivery, Blue Dart and TrackOn Couriers.
The accused were caught after breaking the gate
During the raid, the accused did not open the doors at many places, due to which the police had to break the doors. It is feared that during this period many people may have destroyed the evidence. These cartel members come to India on student visa, do not go to college and while living a luxurious lifestyle by earning money from drugs and sex trade, they are pushing the youth of the country into the trap of drugs. Delhi Crime Branch has started further legal action by taking the seized material and Nigerian citizens into its custody.