Delhi police have arrested 254 foreign nationals in connection with drug trafficking since 2024, revealing concerning trends in narcotics distribution in the National Capital Region (NCR). The illegal drugs seized are valued at over ₹40.53 crore, as confirmed by the government in a Lok Sabha session on Tuesday.
Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, stated that the arrests involve foreign nationals, particularly from Nigeria, with police operations conducted in areas such as Khanpur Extension, Deoli, Sangam Vihar, Mehrauli, Hauz Rani, Uttam Nagar, and parts of west Delhi.
The comprehensive analysis of data shows a yearly breakdown of arrests: 40 in 2024, 35 in 2025, and 15 in the first half of 2026. These statistics highlight the urgency of the situation.
The drugs seized encompass various substances, including heroin, cocaine, amphetamine, MDMA, methamphetamine, ecstasy, ganja, and charas. The financial breakdown of these seizures indicates an estimated value of ₹12.75 crore in 2024, ₹14.27 crore in 2025, and ₹13.50 crore in 2026 up to June 30.
Furthermore, the ministry identified 103 foreign nationals living in rented accommodations without the requisite tenant verification. Consequently, action has been taken against 63 landlords in compliance with the mandatory verification norms.
In response to the escalating drug crisis, Rai detailed the government’s “Zero Tolerance” stance against drug traffickers, emphasizing a strategic focus on dismantling networks operating via online platforms, encrypted communication apps, and the darknet. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is actively engaging cyber experts to probe darknet-enabled drug trafficking and cryptocurrency transactions.
The NCB’s ambitious plan, laid out in its Vision Document on Narcotics Control, outlines the establishment of dedicated Darknet and Cryptocurrency Cells within Anti-Narcotics Task Forces. This initiative aims to utilize AI analytics and advanced technologies to combat organized cyber-enabled drug trafficking.
Additionally, the NCB has rolled out specialized training programs focusing on cyber-enabled narcotics investigations, digital forensics, and cryptocurrency monitoring, in partnership with the US Drug Enforcement Administration and Rashtriya Raksha University.
The three-year roadmap contained in the vision document highlights several key strategies. These include strengthening financial investigations, enhancing the Narco-Coordination Centre mechanism, fostering international cooperation, and improving the operational performance of the 24×7 MANAS national narcotics helpline. The roadmap also promotes the Mission Drug Free Campus in educational institutions.
As the fight against drug trafficking intensifies, the government remains committed to cultivating a secure and drug-free environment. Stakeholders, including law enforcement agencies and educational institutions, are urged to collaborate in tackling the pervasive issue of narcotics.
