Three Nigerian nationals have been arrested in India for their alleged involvement in an international drug trafficking operation, as Indian authorities intensify their crackdown on narcotics syndicates operating within the country.
The suspects, identified as Ambemo Victor (37), Chime Moses (36), and Karikari Ames (33), were arrested by operatives of the Anti-Narcotic Wing of the Central Crime Branch (CCB) following intelligence-led operations in Bengaluru.
According to Indian authorities, the suspects allegedly entered the country on medical and tourist visas before becoming involved in illicit drug distribution activities.
Investigators said the three Nigerians were believed to have sourced the narcotics from another Nigerian national based in Delhi before transporting and distributing them.
Officials disclosed that the operation led to the seizure of 10.27 kilograms of MDMA crystals and 2.044 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis, with the confiscated drugs estimated to be worth approximately Rs23 crore.
Authorities said the arrests followed a raid on a residence located within the Madanayakanahalli police jurisdiction after security operatives received credible intelligence about the suspected drug operation.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects allegedly used the location as part of their distribution network while maintaining links with suppliers operating from India’s capital.
The latest arrests add to a growing number of cases involving Nigerian nationals facing criminal investigations in India.
Barely two months ago, Indian security agencies arrested four other Nigerians over separate allegations of fraud and impersonation.
Three of the suspects — identified as Chinedu, Sunday and Jules — were accused of operating an online romance scam in which they allegedly impersonated women on social media to defraud victims. Another suspect, identified as Uchenwa, was arrested in Uttar Pradesh during a separate operation.
During that earlier investigation, authorities recovered multiple mobile phones, a laptop, and several Indian and international SIM cards believed to have been used in carrying out the alleged fraudulent activities.
Indian authorities said investigations into the latest drug trafficking case are ongoing as efforts continue to identify and apprehend other members of the suspected network.
