Suspects allegedly entered on medical, tourist visas before joining trafficking ring; over 12kg of illicit drugs recovered in coordinated raids

Indian authorities have arrested three Nigerian nationals over their alleged involvement in a drug trafficking syndicate, seizing narcotics valued at approximately $2.8 million.

The suspects—Ambemo Victor (37), Chime Moses (36), and Karikari Ames (33)—were apprehended by operatives of the Anti-Narcotic Wing of the Central Crime Branch (CCB), following intelligence-led operations in the city.

According to a report by The New Indian Express, the trio reportedly entered India on medical and tourist visas but later became involved in the illicit drug trade. Investigators said the suspects sourced the drugs from another Nigerian national based in Delhi.

Police disclosed that the operation led to the recovery of 10.27 kilograms of MDMA crystals and 2.044 kilograms of hydroponic cannabis. The MDMA haul alone is estimated to be worth about $2.5 million.

“The Anti-Narcotic Wing of the CCB arrested four individuals, including three Nigerian nationals, in two separate drug peddling cases,” the report stated. “Acting on credible intelligence, officers raided a residence within the Madanayakanahalli police jurisdiction, leading to the arrests and seizure of narcotics.”

The latest crackdown comes barely two months after Indian authorities arrested four other Nigerians in separate operations over alleged fraud and impersonation.

In that earlier case, three suspects—identified as Chinedu, Sunday, and Jules—were accused of running a social media scam in which they allegedly impersonated women to defraud victims. A fourth suspect, Uchenwa, 49, was arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force.

Security agencies reportedly recovered 19 mobile phones, a laptop, and 18 SIM cards—both local and international—from the suspects linked to the fraud ring.

The arrests underscore ongoing efforts by Indian law enforcement to dismantle transnational criminal networks operating within the country.