In a resounding victory against the illicit drug trade, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in Mumbai successfully foiled an elaborate smuggling operation, preventing a substantial quantity of narcotics from infiltrating Goa, as well as various parts of Maharashtra and major cities across the country. The operation, which spanned over a month, culminated in the arrest of nine drug traffickers, including three foreign nationals. The NCB’s relentless efforts led to the seizure of approximately 206 kilograms of Cocaine and Alprazolam, collectively valued at a staggering Rs 135 crore.
The NCB’s action was driven by a notable surge in the demand for narcotics during the bustling tourist season in Goa. Recognizing this trend, the accused targeted Goa as a primary market for their smuggling enterprise.
Employing intelligence inputs and careful surveillance, the NCB meticulously tracked the entire operation, spanning from Gujarat to Maharashtra and Goa. Their efforts were guided by credible international sources in Mumbai who identified drug trafficking syndicates involved in unlawful activities.
Utilizing advanced digital surveillance techniques and other monitoring methods, the NCB zeroed in on a Nigerian network based in Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, which had received a consignment of Cocaine for distribution. Among those arrested was Paul Ikenna, alias “Bossman,” a known figure in the world of drug trafficking with a history of offences dating back to 1989, including a significant heroin case. His criminal record also includes a conviction in 2001 for an 11-kilogram heroin case and involvement in a January 2023 NCB-Bengaluru case before his apprehension in this recent raid.
In a subsequent operation, the NCB apprehended the remaining alleged drug traffickers, which included a Bolivian national named Evelina Alvarez. Throughout these operations, the NCB seized 6.959 kilograms of Cocaine and 199.25 kilograms of Alprazolam, collectively valued at an astonishing Rs 135 crore.
