Law enforcement authorities in the national capital have dismantled an illicit drug distribution network operating under the guise of regular taxi services. Police forces apprehended two vehicle operators and a foreign national involved in trafficking restricted narcotics across various parts of the city. Significant quantities of prohibited substances have been recovered from the suspects, which were allegedly intended for local distribution. A formal case has been registered under relevant legal provisions, and officials are actively pursuing other associates connected to this syndicate.
Initial Arrests Near Kashmiri Gate
The operation commenced following credible intelligence received on October 12, indicating that two individuals identified as Achhe Babu and Zahid would arrive near the foot overbridge on Ring Road in Kashmiri Gate to deliver a consignment of illegal substances. Acting swiftly on this tip-off, a police team established a perimeter and apprehended Achhe Babu at approximately 9:15 PM. Shortly afterward, Zahid was taken into custody from a parked car nearby. Initial searches of the two suspects yielded 16.4 grams of cocaine and 90 grams of heroin, confirming their active participation in the illicit trade.
Interrogation Reveals Foreign Connection
During custodial interrogation, both drivers disclosed vital information regarding their association with a foreign national named Cajetan. They explained that Cajetan had initially hired their taxi on a rental basis but gradually co-opted them into participating in drug deliveries. Acting on this intelligence, law enforcement teams raided the Mehrauli area in Delhi on October 13 and arrested 43-year-old Nigerian national Cajetan Chukwuezequu. Subsequent searches led to the recovery of an additional 5.7 grams of cocaine and 15.3 grams of MDMA from his possession.
Operation of Rented Vehicles for Distribution
Further investigation revealed the modus operandi employed by the suspects to maintain a low profile. Achhe Babu, a 25-year-old native of Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh, operated a taxi on a daily rental of 600 rupees. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Zahid, hailing from Shahjahanpur, also worked as a commercial driver. The duo allegedly utilized their vehicles to transport contraband based on delivery schedules. The car used in the illicit transportation of the narcotics has been officially impounded by the authorities.
Overstayed Medical Visa and Fugitive Accomplice
Background checks on the arrested foreign national unveiled further immigration violations. Cajetan stated during questioning that he entered India in 2022 on a medical visa and continued to reside in the country long after its expiration. Investigators also learned that he operated in tandem with another Nigerian national named Ameka. Raids were conducted to apprehend Ameka, though he remains at large while search operations continue.
Comprehensive Recovery and Ongoing Probe
Collectively, the police recovered 22.1 grams of cocaine, 90 grams of heroin, and 15.3 grams of MDMA across all arrests, alongside the vehicle utilized in the operation. Legal proceedings under the NDPS Act have been initiated against the accused individuals. Investigators are currently focused on tracing the origin of the seized narcotics, identifying other members linked to the distribution network, and examining their respective roles in the syndicate as the investigation remains active.
