Indian authorities have deported 32 Nigerians linked to an alleged transnational drug network, following an extensive multi-state security operation that resulted in the arrest of about 50 suspects, NAN reports.

The operation, described by Indian officials as one of the country’s largest coordinated crackdowns on a foreign-run narcotics and hawala syndicate, was carried out by the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (EAGLE) in collaboration with the Delhi Police.

According to a report by the Times of India on Wednesday, investigators traced the network to a Nigeria-based fugitive kingpin identified simply as “Nick,” said to be wanted in multiple drug-trafficking cases.

A senior EAGLE official disclosed that all the suspects arrested in Delhi were allegedly working for the said kingpin.

“Less than 10 days after the EAGLE team, in coordination with the Delhi Police, nabbed 50 Nigerians linked to drug peddling, 32 of them have been deported.

“During the probe, the officials found that the foreign drug peddlers were working for one Nick, who is wanted in multiple cases registered by EAGLE,” the official was quoted as saying.

Investigators also reported that the kingpin, believed to be operating from Nigeria, maintained more than 100 associates in Delhi alone, running what authorities described as a multi-layered supply chain serving clients across India.

A forensic review of digital devices recovered from the suspects reportedly revealed a client base of over 3,000 individuals nationwide. Investigators said the database was compiled from payment records, encrypted communication logs and delivery contacts.

The report added that, in several instances, payments for drug transactions were routed through businesses that appeared legitimate but were allegedly used for laundering proceeds.

It further indicated that the probe uncovered a chain of companies implicated in cleaning illicit funds.

“In one instance, a publisher laundered Rs 20 lakh to Nigeria after partnering with the peddlers. Similarly, some of the peddlers tied up with businessmen dealing in footwear and apparel,” the report stated.

Authorities said the Delhi Police processed the deportation of 32 of the Nigerians “on priority,” while seven others are facing prosecution after drugs were reportedly recovered from them during the raid.

Officials added that the remaining suspects “may also be deported,” subject to clearance and documentation review.