Massive Drug Bust in Delhi: Cocaine Worth ₹2,000 Crore Seized in Historic Operation
Massive Drug Bust in Delhi: Cocaine Worth ₹2,000 Crore Seized in Historic Operation
New Delhi, October 2, 2024 – In what is being described as the biggest drug bust in the history of the national capital, Delhi Police seized a staggering 560 kg of cocaine, valued at approximately ₹2,000 crore. The contraband was discovered in a raid conducted in South Delhi’s upscale Mehrauli area. Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the seizure, marking a significant blow to drug trafficking operations in the region.
Details of the Operation
The police had been tracking this drug cartel for months, after receiving credible intelligence about a large-scale drug smuggling ring operating out of Delhi. The breakthrough came when Special Cell of the Delhi Police received a tip-off about a major consignment being delivered in Mehrauli.
Acting on the information, a special team was formed, led by senior officers of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force. The team launched an extensive surveillance operation, closely monitoring movements in the targeted area. On Wednesday, the police swooped in on the designated location, uncovering the massive haul of cocaine stashed in a private warehouse.
The Seized Drugs
The 560 kg of cocaine, packed in dozens of parcels, was estimated to have been smuggled into the country from an international drug syndicate. The street value of the drugs is pegged at nearly ₹2,000 crore. The consignment was reportedly meant for distribution across multiple Indian cities, indicating the far-reaching scale of the operation.
The purity of the seized cocaine is said to be extremely high, raising concerns about its potential impact had it reached the streets. According to police officials, such a significant quantity of high-purity cocaine would have wreaked havoc in India’s growing narcotics market.
Arrests and Investigation
Four individuals, identified as key operatives in the drug cartel, were arrested during the raid. Their identities have not been disclosed as investigations are still underway. Preliminary interrogation has revealed that the arrested individuals have strong ties to international drug networks, and they were responsible for coordinating the logistics of drug distribution across India.
The Delhi Police, in coordination with central agencies, is now working to uncover the broader network of accomplices, both within and outside the country. The arrested men are believed to be mere operatives of a larger syndicate that has been smuggling drugs into India for years.
Statements from Authorities
Speaking to the media, Delhi Police Commissioner, Sanjay Arora, hailed the operation as a significant victory against organized crime and drug trafficking. “This is the largest seizure of cocaine in Delhi’s history and a major achievement for the police force. The seizure of such a large quantity of drugs will send a strong message to drug cartels that law enforcement agencies are resolute in their fight against illegal narcotics,” said Arora.
He further added that the investigation would be taken to the highest level, and the police are working on breaking up the international network behind the smuggling.
Impact on Drug Trade in India
India has seen a sharp rise in drug-related incidents in recent years, with large cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru becoming hotspots for narcotics consumption and distribution. Cocaine, often regarded as a high-end party drug, has gained popularity among urban elite circles. The bust comes as a major disruption for organized drug syndicates that have been supplying narcotics to the affluent sections of society.
This operation also highlights the growing involvement of international crime syndicates in India’s drug trade, particularly with cocaine being sourced from South America, which is a key production region. Police are investigating the international links to understand the supply routes and financial trails.
The Road Ahead
Delhi Police, in collaboration with national and international agencies, is set to continue its crackdown on narcotics. With the arrests made, authorities hope to gain further intelligence on the larger cartel and prevent future smuggling operations.
As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement agencies are expected to delve deeper into the syndicate’s operations, likely leading to more arrests in the coming days. The case has also raised alarm about the growing drug menace in India, prompting calls for heightened vigilance and stronger international cooperation to combat the narcotics trade.