Delhi Police deports 32 Nigerians linked to expansive drug network in India
Thirty-two Nigerian nationals have been deported from India following a large-scale police crackdown on a transnational drug trafficking and money-laundering network operating across several major cities.
The deportations come after Delhi Police, working with the Telangana Police’s EAGLE unit, arrested 50 Nigerians late last month in what authorities described as one of India’s biggest coordinated operations against foreign narcotics syndicates.
Investigators said the suspects were part of a vast distribution network that moved drugs from Delhi using courier services disguised as legitimate product shipments. The syndicate is allegedly linked to a kingpin known as Nick, believed to be operating from Nigeria and wanted in multiple EAGLE cases. Officials said he has around 100 associates in Delhi alone.
According to findings cited by the Times of India, analysis of seized devices showed the network had built a customer base of more than 3,000 people across the country, based on payment records. Police also uncovered evidence of hawala transactions, including a publisher who allegedly laundered ₹20 lakh to Nigeria in collaboration with the traffickers, as well as ties with footwear and apparel traders.
Out of those arrested, Delhi Police deported 32 Nigerians “on priority,” while seven suspects found with drugs face criminal prosecution. Authorities said more deportations are expected as investigations continue.
Officials added that companies and individuals who facilitated financial transfers for the network will be tracked and charged as the probe expands.
