Indian authorities have uncovered a large drug trafficking and illegal money-transfer syndicate operating across several states, leading to the arrest of 50 Nigerian nationals in what officials describe as one of the biggest coordinated operations in recent years.
The network was linked to a hawala system—an informal and illegal channel used to move money outside regulated banking structures. Investigators said the syndicate used hawala operators to launder proceeds from drug sales by converting cash into goods such as garments and human hair, which were then shipped to Lagos, Nigeria. Police estimate that the suspected ringleader alone moved about ₹15 crore (approximately ₦2.4 billion) through these routes.
The multi-agency crackdown involved the Telangana EAGLE force, which deployed 120 operatives to New Delhi using two dedicated railway bogies. The team spent several weeks conducting surveillance, gathering intelligence, and executing targeted raids.
Authorities said the cartel operated across major cities, including Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Goa, and parts of Kerala, supplying high-value synthetic drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine. Investigators also identified around 2,000 alleged drug recipients who used “dead-drop” locations and courier services to avoid detection. The group reportedly relied on encrypted communication and delivery methods similar to those used by food-delivery platforms.
Further inquiries revealed that the sex trade was being used as a cover for drug distribution, widening the syndicate’s footprint.
Officials described the arrests as a major milestone in dismantling transnational drug and financial crime networks. They emphasised the need for stricter verification of foreign nationals, improvement in visa and passport controls, and closure of loopholes that allow previously deported individuals to re-enter India.
Investigations into the drug and hawala operations are ongoing.
