Indian authorities have deported 32 Nigerian nationals implicated in a sprawling transnational drug trafficking network, following a major crackdown that nabbed around 50 suspects across Delhi and other cities just weeks ago. The operation, led by the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) and Delhi Police, uncovered a sophisticated syndicate tied to a Nigeria-based kingpin known as "Nick," who faces multiple drug cases and commanded over 100 associates in Delhi alone.
Digital forensics from seized devices revealed more than 3,000 clients nationwide, with payments funneled through hawala systems and sham businesses like publishing, footwear, and apparel firms to launder proceeds.
Seven deportees had drugs seized directly from them, facing prosecution, while others await clearance; the network disguised shipments via courier services, evading checks with external verifications. Investigators highlighted "Nick's" multi-layered supply chain feeding addicts coast-to-coast, including a case where Rs 20 lakh was wired to Nigeria via a publisher and another involving 15 crore laundered through fake garment firms.
This swift action underscores India's intensified war on foreign-led narcotics, with ongoing probes targeting enablers and vows to pursue remaining suspects, signaling zero tolerance for such cross-border threats.