Indian authorities have deported 32 Nigerians alleged to be connected to a major transnational drug network, just two weeks after security operatives arrested nearly 50 suspects in a large multi-state raid.
The arrests marked one of India’s biggest coordinated operations targeting a foreign-run drug and hawala syndicate believed to be active across major cities.
Details from the Times of India on Wednesday revealed that investigators have traced the cartel to a Nigeria-based kingpin identified simply as “Nick,” who is reportedly wanted in several drug-trafficking cases in the country.
Senior officials in India’s Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) disclosed that the arrested Nigerians were allegedly operatives of the fugitive 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,” the report stated.
Investigators added that all signs pointed back to the same mastermind.
“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 added.
According to the Times of India, digital devices seized from the suspects provided a clearer picture of the network’s reach.
A forensic review allegedly revealed over 3,000 clients spread across India, with police piecing together customer lists from payment trails, encrypted chats and delivery contacts.
Officials described the operation as multi-layered, noting that the kingpin reportedly maintained about 100 associates in Delhi alone, coordinating supply chains that catered to clients across states.
The investigation also exposed a series of businesses allegedly used to launder proceeds of drug sales.
“In some instances, the payments were routed through businesses that appeared legitimate on paper but existed primarily to launder drug money,” the report noted.
EAGLE’s probe reportedly uncovered a “chain of companies” linked to the network.
In one instance, a publisher allegedly laundered Rs 20 lakh to Nigeria after partnering with the peddlers. Investigators also cited links with businessmen dealing in footwear and apparel.
The Delhi Police were said to have moved swiftly to deport 32 of the Nigerian nationals “on priority.”
Seven others are facing prosecution after controlled substances were allegedly recovered from them during the raids.
Officials added that the remaining suspects “may also be deported” once clearance and documentation reviews are completed.
