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The Digest:

At least 32 Nigerians have been deported from India following their alleged involvement in a sprawling narcotics and money-laundering syndicate. The deportations come after a large-scale police operation last month that led to the arrest of 50 Nigerians across multiple Indian cities.

Key Points:
  • The arrests were part of a coordinated crackdown by the Delhi Police and Telangana's EAGLE unit targeting a transnational drug network.
  • The suspects were allegedly using courier services to disguise and supply drugs from Delhi to clients across India.
  • Officials linked the network to a wanted figure known as "Nick," believed to be operating from Nigeria with over 100 associates in Delhi alone.
  • Police analysis revealed the network had over 3,000 clients in India, with payments routed through hawala channels.
  • Some arrested individuals reportedly collaborated with local businessmen in apparel and footwear to launder money back to Nigeria.
  • Criminal cases have been filed against seven individuals from whom drugs were recovered, with more deportations likely.
  • Investigations are ongoing to trace and prosecute companies and individuals who assisted in laundering the syndicate's funds.
The case exposes the shadow networks that stretch across continents, where crime globalizes faster than justice, testing international cooperation and the reputation of nationals abroad.

Sources: Times of India, The Cable