Indian authorities have arrested three Nigerian nationals over their alleged involvement in an international drug trafficking operation, seizing narcotics valued at an estimated ₹23 crore.
The arrests were carried out by operatives of the Anti-Narcotic Wing of the Central Crime Branch (CCB) following separate operations in the country, according to The New Indian Express.
The suspects were identified as Ambemo Victor, 37, Chime Moses, 36, and Karikari Ames, 33.
Investigators alleged that the trio entered India on medical and tourist visas before becoming involved in the illegal drug trade.
Police said intelligence reports led officers to a residence within the Madanayakanahalli police jurisdiction, where the suspects were apprehended.
During the operation, authorities reportedly recovered 10.27 kilograms of MDMA crystals and 2.044 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis, with the seized narcotics estimated to be worth about ₹23 crore.
According to investigators, the suspects allegedly obtained the drugs from another Nigerian national believed to be operating from Delhi.
“The Anti-Narcotic Wing of the CCB arrested four persons, including three Nigerian nationals, in connection with two drug trafficking cases in the city,” the report stated.
Authorities added that preliminary investigations indicate the suspects entered India legally before allegedly engaging in narcotics distribution.
The latest arrests come just weeks after Indian law enforcement agencies detained four other Nigerian nationals over separate allegations involving fraud and identity-related offences.
In May, police in Gurugram arrested three Nigerians, identified as Chinedu, Sunday and Jules, for allegedly operating an online scam in which they impersonated women on social media platforms to defraud victims.
In a separate operation, the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force also arrested another Nigerian national, identified as Uchenwa, 49, over alleged cybercrime-related offences.
Police had reportedly recovered 19 mobile phones, a laptop, and 18 Indian and international SIM cards during the earlier investigation.
