NEW DELHI, Nov 24: Authorities seized 328 kg of high-quality methamphetamine worth an estimated ₹262 crore, exposing a major trans-national cartel with operational links to Nagaland. The breakthrough came under the nationwide anti-narcotics drive, Operation Crystal Fortress, led by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Delhi Police and Nagaland Police.
A woman from Nagaland, who had been residing at the Chhatarpur house where the massive consignment was recovered, was detained and later arrested. Another individual was also taken into custody. Officials believe the network forms part of a larger international syndicate headed by a kingpin operating from abroad — the same mastermind wanted in last year’s 82.5-kg cocaine seizure in Delhi. India is now working with foreign enforcement agencies to secure his deportation.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah praised the agencies for what he called a “brilliant example of seamless multi-agency coordination” and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving a drug-free India under the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative.
Investigators say the cartel operated with sophisticated methods, using multiple couriers, layered handlers, and safe houses to move synthetic drugs within India and across borders. As the probe expands internationally, NCB has urged citizens to report drug-related information through the MANAS helpline at 1933.
