KEY POINTS

• Indian authorities arrested 4 Nigerians and an accomplice, seizing N4.8 billion worth of methamphetamine, heroin, and MDMA across Delhi-NCR locations
• Syndicate exploited student visas as cover and used cryptocurrency for drug money laundering, according to investigators
• Bust follows increasing Nigerian-linked drug cases in India, with methamphetamine emerging as preferred narcotic in urban markets

Indian authorities have dismantled a major international drug trafficking ring with Nigerian connections, arresting five suspects and seizing narcotics worth Rs 27 crore (N4.8 billion) in a coordinated operation across Delhi-NCR.

The bust, conducted by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Delhi Police Special Cell, uncovered a sophisticated network using student visas as cover and cryptocurrency for transactions.

According to SaharaReporters, the operation began after intelligence revealed plans for a high-value methamphetamine exchange in Chhatarpur, South Delhi.

Surveillance teams tracked and intercepted a vehicle containing 5.103 kg of pure crystal meth worth Rs 10.2 crore. “The NCB and Delhi Police grabbed the gang by its throat,” said Union Home Minister Amit Shah in a social media statement praising the operation.

Student visas and crypto used to mask international drug network

Investigations revealed an elaborate setup with multiple operational bases. An illegal “African kitchen” in Tilak Nagar, West Delhi – a known drug hotspot – yielded additional seizures: 1.156 kg of crystal meth, 4.142 kg of Afghan heroin, and 5.776 kg of MDMA (Ecstasy pills) worth Rs 16.4 crore. A Greater Noida apartment search uncovered 389g of Afghan heroin and 26g of cocaine.

Authorities confirmed four Nigerian nationals – reportedly from an influential family – and one local accomplice were arrested. Forensic analysis of digital evidence showed some suspects were enrolled in private universities across Delhi-NCR and Punjab, while others exploited student visa status solely for drug distribution. The syndicate also utilized cryptocurrency to launder proceeds, complicating financial trails.

This bust follows growing concerns about African drug networks in India. NCB data shows a 37% increase in Nigerian-linked narcotics cases since 2022, with methamphetamine and MDMA becoming predominant in urban markets. The agency has urged public vigilance through its MANAS helpline (1933) as investigations continue into possible international supply chains and local distributors.