Thirty-two Nigerians have been deported from India following allegations that they were involved in drug peddling.
Gatekeepers News reports that their deportation comes after a major police operation late last month, during which 50 Nigerians were arrested in a joint raid by the Delhi Police and the EAGLE unit of the Telangana Police.
The arrests were linked to a widespread drug-distribution and hawala laundering network operating across several major Indian cities. Officials said the suspects used courier companies to move drugs while pretending to ship regular goods.
Investigators reported that the group was working for a man known as Nick, who is wanted in several EAGLE-related cases and is suspected to be operating from Nigeria.
According to Times of India, an EAGLE officer said Nick has around 100 accomplices in Delhi. The official said, “After analysing the gadgets of the peddlers caught, it was found that the network has over 3,000 clientele across India. The assessment was done based on the payments received by the peddlers.”
He also explained how some individuals helped move money for the syndicate saying, “In one instance, a publisher was involved in laundering 20 lakh to Nigeria by joining hands with peddlers. Similarly, peddlers have tied up with businessmen dealing with footwear and apparel.”
Out of those arrested, Delhi Police deported 32 Nigerians in recent days as a priority action. Seven others are facing criminal charges because drugs were recovered from them, while the remaining suspects may also be deported.
Authorities say the investigation is still in progress, and those who assisted the network with money laundering, including individuals and companies, will be traced and prosecuted.
