WEDNESDAY, MAY 08, 2024
Team Herald
In a significant breakthrough, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Mumbai has successfully dismantled an international drug syndicate operating with a widespread network across India. The arrest of two African nationals has exposed the intricate web of this illicit operation, leading to the recovery of two kilograms of cocaine.
Cocaine, primarily sourced from South American countries, finds its way into India through the deployment of African drug mules. The NCB has noted a surge in the demand for narcotics, especially high-end party drugs, during the festive season. This international network spans major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Goa, indicating the extent of its operations.
Amit Ghawate, the NCB Mumbai Zonal Director, emphasized the significance of the timely action, stating, "At the onset of the festive season, demand for cocaine and other such high-end party drugs has increased. The timely blow on this illegal drug trafficking circuit has convincingly made a breakthrough into the drug syndicates."
The apprehended individuals include a Zambian national, caught with 2 kg of cocaine in a Mumbai hotel, and a Tanzanian individual arrested in Delhi in connection with the syndicate. The NCB acted on intelligence inputs that pointed to a notorious international drug syndicate planning to smuggle cocaine into India.
The operation unfolded when NCB Mumbai officials, acting on the information received, conducted surveillance at a city-based hotel. L A Gilmore, a passenger who had checked into the hotel, was identified as a suspect. A search revealed no suspicious items initially, but upon closer inspection of his carry bag, abnormalities were detected. Two packets containing a total of 2 kg of cocaine were found upon further examination.
Gilmore, who had travelled from Zambia's Lusaka via Addis Ababa in Ethiopia, revealed during interrogation that intermediaries in the region were linked to drug trafficking. The NCB officials also uncovered that Gilmore was being directed by a handler, instructing him to arrive in Delhi for the baggage delivery. Subsequently, the NCB Mumbai team extended its operation to Delhi, where a Tanzanian woman, M R Augustino, intended to receive the consignment from Gilmore. She was intercepted and arrested on Saturday.
Both accused individuals are now in custody, and further interrogation by the NCB Mumbai is underway to unravel more details about this international drug syndicate. The successful operation marks a significant blow to illegal drug trafficking during a period of heightened demand.
