Indian authorities have deported 32 Nigerians alleged to be linked to a large transnational drug syndicate, following a major multi-state operation in which nearly 50 suspects were arrested.
About two weeks ago, India launched one of its most extensive coordinated raids against a foreign-run drug and hawala network active in several major cities.
According to report, last week, investigators believe the network is headed by a cartel leader based in Nigeria, known only as “Nick,” who is already wanted in several drug-trafficking cases.
According to senior officials in India’s Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE), all Nigerians arrested in Delhi were allegedly working directly for the fugitive kingpin.
“Less than 10 days after the joint operation by the EAGLE team and Delhi Police resulted in the arrest of 50 Nigerians involved in drug peddling, 32 have now been deported,” the report confirmed.
During the investigation, officials reportedly discovered that the network relied on a complex hierarchy of foreign operatives who helped distribute narcotics across India.
“Nick,” believed to be coordinating operations from Nigeria, is said to maintain at least 100 associates in Delhi alone.
Investigators told the Times of India that a forensic review of seized mobile phones and laptops revealed an extensive client base of more than 3,000 people nationwide.
Payment records, encrypted chats, and delivery contacts helped police reconstruct the syndicate’s operations.
Some of the money, authorities revealed, was funneled through businesses that appeared legitimate but functioned primarily as fronts for laundering drug proceeds.
Officials also uncovered a chain of companies allegedly used to move illicit funds, including a publishing outfit that reportedly transferred ₹20 lakh to Nigeria.
Several peddlers also collaborated with business owners dealing in footwear and clothing to disguise financial transactions linked to the drug trade.
Police say 32 of the arrested Nigerians were deported “as a priority,” while seven remain in custody and are facing prosecution after drugs were found in their possession.
The remaining suspects may also be deported once documentation and legal processes are completed.
