India has deported 32 Nigerians linked to a transnational drug network barely two weeks after security operatives arrested about 50 suspects in a multi-state narcotics raid.
It was gathered that the arrests were part of one of India’s largest coordinated crackdowns on a foreign-run drug and hawala syndicate operating across major cities.
Recent reports from the Times of India on Wednesday indicated that investigators linked the network to a Nigeria-based kingpin known only as “Nick,” who is allegedly sought in multiple drug-trafficking cases.
Senior officials from the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement police unit stated that all Nigerians detained in Delhi were reportedly employed by the wanted kingpin.
“Less than 10 days after the EAGLE team, in coordination with the Delhi police, nabbed 50 Nigerians linked to drug peddling, 32 of them have been deported.
“During the probe, the officials found that the foreign drug peddlers were working for one Nick, who is wanted in multiple cases registered by EAGLE,” the report stated.
The report revealed by officials states that the fugitive kingpin, thought to be based in Nigeria, had around 100 associates only in Delhi, broadening what police now refer to as a complex supply chain that serves clients across the country.
“Investigators told the TOI that a forensic review of digital devices recovered from the suspects showed the network had over 3,000 clientele across India, with customer lists pieced together from payment trails, encrypted chats, and delivery contacts.”
“In some instances, the payments were routed through businesses that appeared legitimate on paper but existed primarily to launder drug money,” the report added.
The report also revealed that “EAGLE’s probe also uncovered a chain of companies allegedly used to clean illicit proceeds.”
“Furthermore, in another instance, a publisher laundered Rs 20 lakh to Nigeria after partnering with the peddlers.
Likewise, peddlers associated with merchants involved in shoes and clothing,” the report cited investigators as revealing.
The report mentioned that the Delhi Police acted quickly to prioritize the deportation of 32 Nigerian nationals, while seven more are undergoing prosecution after drugs were seized from them during the operation.
Officials stated that the other suspects “could also face deportation” while awaiting clearance and documentation evaluations.
