Nigerian National Arrested in Drug Trafficking Syndicate Bust in Goa, India – Full Details of the Operation, Seizures, and Confession by the Accused

Major Drug Trafficking Syndicate Busted in Goa, Nigerian National Arrested

In a significant breakthrough in dismantling drug syndicates in the country, officers from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) apprehended a Nigerian national who was running a drug trafficking cartel from Goa, India. This operation comes on the heels of a previous seizure of 4.106 kgs of Cocaine at Mumbai International Airport in January 2024, where a Thai national was arrested for attempting to smuggle drugs into India for the same syndicate.

Following extensive analysis and investigation, the Nigerian national based in Goa was identified as a key figure in the syndicate, responsible for managing its operations from the coastal state. After a month of surveillance, the DRI located him in a secluded area near Anjuna in North Goa.

Joint Operation Leads to Arrest

A joint team comprising officers from Mumbai and Goa conducted an operation to apprehend the Nigerian national. During the operation, the suspect attempted to flee and ran into a nearby dense forest. The DRI officers split into teams to pursue him, with one team following closely while others blocked potential escape routes. After a dramatic chase lasting around 20 minutes, the suspect was captured.

Upon searching his rented residence, authorities discovered 39 grams of Cocaine, laboratory equipment, and unaccounted cash amounting to INR 5,79,700. The suspect admitted to using the laboratory equipment to adulterate the Cocaine and revealed that the cash was proceeds from drug sales.

Confession and Legal Action

During interrogation, the accused confessed to his involvement in drug trafficking activities in India. He confessed to supplying narcotics to local drug peddlers and their clients and disclosed that he had been previously arrested in NDPS cases. Additionally, it was revealed that he was residing in India without valid legal documentation.

The suspect was subsequently arrested and transported to Mumbai on transit remand. He was presented before the court and is currently in judicial custody. This operation underscores the commitment and professionalism of the DRI in dismantling drug syndicates and protecting society from the harmful effects of drug trafficking.