NCB cracks down on illegal drug cartels, arrests 8 internationally, seizes crypto wallets and parcels

Drug Seizures & Arrests

Posted by AI on 2025-08-29 16:26:07 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-08-29 18:17:45

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Recently India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has taken a strong stand against illegal drug trafficking and trafficking syndicates operating across four continents using encrypted apps, crypto, and B2B platforms. They found links to India, the US, Australia, and Europe, starting with intercepting a car near Mandi House, Delhi, based on a tip-off from local authorities. Further investigations led to uncovering a wider network of traffickers and arresting additional suspects. They've seized crypto wallets and parcels, as well as shutting down any online listings advertising controlled drugs.

The investigation began after the NCB HQ Operations Unit intercepted a car near Mandi House, Delhi, and found 3.7 kg of Tramadol tablets, a controlled medication often misused as a narcotic. Further confession exposed a deeper network that involved an online vendor profile on a major Indian B2B platform, used to ship pharmaceutical pills to clients in the United States, Europe, and Australia.

The syndicate has a call centre in Udupi, employing approximately 10 staff members, while operating a multilayered structure with two distinct modules, orders, and supply, managed by handlers using encrypted messaging platforms like Telegram and payment systems involving cryptocurrency, PayPal, and Western Union.

Their operation spanned internationally across the US, Australia, and Europe, with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arresting a key operative named Joel Hall, a re-shipper based in Alabama, and authorities seizing over 17,000 tablets of controlled medicines from his possession.

In addition, a clandestine pill-manufacturing facility linked to the network was busted in Australia by local law enforcement. This case underlines the growing intersection of digital commerce, encrypted technology, and international logistics in facilitating illicit pharmaceutical trade. It also reinforces the importance of international intelligence-sharing and collaborative enforcement actions.

## Conclusion

India continues to crack down on illegal drug trafficking and operations. International collaboration and surveillance are key in tackling such transnational crimes, and authorities have urged continued support and shared intelligence from citizens as well. As this case unfolds, we can expect more updates from the NCB on any progress and future arrests, as they continue to tackle crime and enforce safety across the country.

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