New Delhi, Nov 28 (NationPress) In a significant inter-state operation targeting a global drug trafficking syndicate, the Delhi Police Crime Branch, working alongside the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TGNAB), has successfully taken down a widespread African drug cartel that was active throughout the Delhi-NCR region, as reported by the Delhi Police on Friday.

The collaborative effort, carried out at various sites, led to the apprehension of crucial cartel members, the confiscation of narcotics valued at approximately Rs 12 crore, and the identification of 30 foreign nationals overstaying illegally.

According to officials, the operation was initiated based on intelligence provided by TGNAB in relation to FIR No. 08/25 filed in Hyderabad.

“The joint efforts of the Crime Branch and TGNAB led to significant seizures across multiple locations, including Mehrauli, Sant Garh, Nilothi, Pratap Enclave, Greater Noida, and Munirka, showcasing the operation’s effectiveness,” the Delhi Police stated in their press release.

One of the notable arrests occurred at Mohan Garden in Uttam Nagar, where Zainab Kyobutungi, a Ugandan national suspected of being a key supplier, was taken into custody.

Police seized 195 grams of cocaine, 24 grams of MDMA, and Rs 40,500 in cash, resulting in the filing of an NDPS case.

In a separate incident at Sant Garh, a Nigerian national named Bekki, recognized as a major distributor, was arrested with 5,209 MDMA pills, 35.46 grams of cocaine, and Rs 78,000 in cash.

Her information led to the capture of another Nigerian, Frank, in Nihal Vihar, who was found with 60 MD pills.

During another raid, law enforcement searched a secured location linked to Jean Ahmad alias Godwin, who is wanted by TGNAB, and discovered over 106 grams of cocaine and 107 grams of heroin, suggesting the site was used for storage.

The operation also resulted in the arrest of several Indian associates, including Badruddin and Zafar, who are believed to have managed the cartel's financial and communication networks. Many of these individuals provided SIM cards under false identities to maintain the cartel's secrecy.

During the raids, authorities detained 30 foreign nationals—12 women and 18 men—who were found to be illegally residing without proper documentation. The men were transferred to a deportation facility, while arrangements for the women are currently in progress.

“This operation underscores the robust enforcement measures taken to thwart illegal immigrants from exploiting the national capital region as a base for organized crime,” stated Jt. Commissioner, Crime Branch, Surender Kumar.