Bengaluru Police Crack Down on International Drug Racket
In a significant breakthrough, the Bengaluru police have apprehended a foreign national and seized a massive cache of narcotics valued at over five crore rupees. The operation targeted a suspected drug peddling network operating within the city limits.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
Acting on specific intelligence, the Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Central Crime Branch conducted a raid on Monday night. They arrested 45-year-old Ernest Onyekachi Ugah, a Nigerian citizen, from a rented residence in the Munnekolalu area under Marathahalli police jurisdiction.
During the operation, officers confiscated a substantial quantity of illegal substances from Ugah's possession. The haul included 2.5 kilograms of MDMA and 300 ecstasy pills. Police officials estimate the total street value of these drugs at approximately Rs 5.15 crore in international markets.
Accused's Criminal Background and Status
Investigations reveal that the arrested individual is not a first-time offender. Ernest Onyekachi Ugah already has two prior cases registered against him under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act. These cases were filed at Hennur and Kadugodi police stations in Bengaluru.
Authorities confirmed that Ugah had been recently released from jail before his latest arrest. The Anti-Narcotics Wing had been closely monitoring his activities for some time before taking him into custody.
Immigration Violations and Modus Operandi
Police sources provided additional background on the accused. Ugah originally arrived in India around five years ago, ostensibly for medical treatment. However, he overstayed his visa, which has since expired, and remained in the country illegally.
Instead of returning to Nigeria, he allegedly became involved in unlawful activities, particularly drug peddling. This pattern of behavior continued despite his previous encounters with law enforcement.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The Bengaluru police have registered a fresh case against Ernest Onyekachi Ugah under the NDPS Act. Investigators are now working to uncover the complete network behind this drug operation.
Their focus includes tracing the source of the contraband, identifying both backward and forward linkages in the supply chain, and apprehending other individuals potentially involved in the racket.
Police Call for Stringent Legal Measures
Senior officers emphasized the need for more effective legal mechanisms to deal with repeat offenders, especially foreign nationals involved in drug crimes. They pointed out that delays in the judicial process often allow such accused persons to secure bail and continue their illegal activities.
Police officials advocate for fast-track trials in these cases. They argue that expedited proceedings would enable quicker deportation of foreign nationals convicted of such crimes. Additionally, they stress the importance of imposing stricter bail conditions for individuals accused in drug cases, particularly those with a history of similar offences.
The Bengaluru police remain vigilant in their efforts to combat drug trafficking within the city. This latest arrest demonstrates their ongoing commitment to disrupting narcotics networks and maintaining public safety.
