Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
NEW DELHI/ABUJA — Indian authorities have deported 32 Nigerian nationals believed to be tied to a sprawling international drug‑trafficking network — less than two weeks after a coordinated multi‑state narcotics operation led to the arrest of approximately 50 suspects.
According to the authorities involved, the crackdown, spearheaded by the anti‑narcotics unit EAGLE Force in collaboration with the Delhi Police Crime Branch and other police units across India, targeted a foreign‑run syndicate operating in multiple states. Investigators revealed that those deported were allegedly working under a kingpin known only as “Nick,” who is suspected of masterminding the ring from abroad, with an estimated 100 associates just in Delhi and a supply network serving over 3,000 clients across India.
During the raids, authorities uncovered an extensive narcotics pipeline that spanned major cities including Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Visakhapatnam. Seized items reportedly included ecstasy pills, methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine. In addition to narcotics, the operation exposed hawala‑based money‑laundering channels and the reuse of legitimate businesses—such as apparel and courier services—to facilitate the syndicate’s activities.
Senior EAGLE officials said the deportation of the 32 Nigerians was processed “on priority,” and that 7 other suspects remain in custody as prosecutions continue. Some of the detained individuals may also be deported depending on the outcome of legal and documentation review.
For Nigeria — whose citizens have increasingly become the focus of international drug‑trafficking crackdowns — the arrests and deportations deliver a stark warning about the global reach of narcotics networks and the reputational risks such cases pose. The scale of the bust also underscores the evolving sophistication of drug cartels, which now exploit digital communication, courier services, and cross‑border mobility to expand their reach.
Observers say the crackdown should catalyze renewed diplomatic and law‑enforcement cooperation between Nigeria and partner countries like India, including enhanced visa‑screening, extradition treaties, and joint intelligence operations.
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