In a significant operation, the Mumbai unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has dismantled a major international drug trafficking syndicate, seizing narcotics valued at approximately Rs.200 crore. The confiscated substances include 11.54 kilograms of high-grade cocaine, 4.9 kilograms of hydroponic weed, and 200 packets (weighing around 5.5 kilograms) of cannabis-infused gummies. Four individuals suspected to be members of this syndicate have been apprehended.
Operation Details
The operation commenced with specific intelligence that led the NCB to a courier agency, where they intercepted a parcel containing 200 grams of cocaine intended for Australia. This initial seizure enabled the agency to trace the supply chain back to a larger stash concealed in Navi Mumbai. Subsequent raids uncovered the bulk of the contraband at this location.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the syndicate was orchestrated by individuals based abroad. They allegedly sourced the seized drugs from the United States, intending to distribute them both within India and internationally through couriers, small cargo shipments, and human carriers. The syndicate maintained a strict need-to-know protocol, utilizing code words and pseudonyms to evade detection by law enforcement agencies.
Official Commendation
Union Home Minister Amit Shah lauded the NCB’s efforts, stating, “A breakthrough in Mumbai in seizing very high-grade cocaine, ganja, and cannabis gummies, and arresting four people. It is a testament to the success of the top-to-bottom approach to investigation adopted to make PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s vision for a drug-free India a reality. Congratulations to team NCB on this massive success.”
Ongoing Investigations
The NCB is actively pursuing further leads to apprehend additional individuals connected to this syndicate. Efforts are underway to map both the upstream suppliers and downstream distributors involved in this network. The operation was spearheaded by Amit Ghawate, Additional Director of the NCB’s Mumbai Zonal Unit.
Context of the Seizure
This seizure is part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking in India. In recent months, authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle narcotics networks with international connections. For instance, in November 2024, the NCB seized 82.53 kilograms of high-grade cocaine in New Delhi, valued at approximately Rs.900 crore.
Government’s Stance on Drug Trafficking
The Indian government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards drug trafficking. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to eradicate the drug menace, stating, “Unless we attack the entire network, from its source to its destination, we cannot achieve a drug-free India.”
Conclusion
The recent bust by the NCB’s Mumbai unit underscores the agency’s commitment to combating drug trafficking. By dismantling this international syndicate, the NCB has dealt a significant blow to narcotics distribution networks operating within and beyond India’s borders.
