Law enforcement agencies have arrested 254 foreign nationals in drug trafficking cases in the National Capital Region since 2024, with narcotics worth over ₹40.53 crore seized from them, the government informed Lok Sabha on Tuesday.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai highlighted that 103 foreign nationals lived in rented accommodations without mandatory tenant verification, prompting action against 63 landlords.
In a detailed written reply to Lok Sabha, Rai stated that Delhi Police arrested foreign nationals involved in the illegal trafficking of narcotics from areas including Khanpur Extension, Deoli, Sangam Vihar, and Mehrauli.
The year-wise breakdown reveals arrests of 40 foreign nationals in 2024, 35 in 2025, and 15 in the first half of 2026.
Seized substances included heroin, cocaine, and ecstasy, with estimated values of ₹12.75 crore in 2024, ₹14.27 crore in 2025, and ₹13.50 crore up to June 30, 2026.
The minister remarked that these actions reflect the government’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking effectively. Cyber experts now conduct investigations into darknet-enabled drug trafficking and related cryptocurrency transactions. This marks a significant step in the government’s “Zero Tolerance” policy against drug traffickers.
Rai emphasized the role of Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), which has begun adopting an intelligence-led, technology-driven approach to dismantle drug trafficking networks. This includes identifying and monitoring operation channels over online platforms, encrypted communication applications, and the darknet.
As part of this strategy, the NCB has also engaged in specialized training programs in collaboration with the US Drug Enforcement Administration to enhance capabilities in cyber-enabled narcotics investigations and digital forensics.
The Vision Document on Narcotics Control outlines a three-year roadmap aimed at combating drug trafficking through enhanced cooperation and advanced technologies. It introduces dedicated Darknet and Cryptocurrency Cells in all Anti-Narcotics Task Forces.
The proactive measures also aim to strengthen financial investigations, expand the Narco-Coordination Centre mechanism, and promote initiatives like the Mission Drug Free Campus in educational institutions.
The government’s approach emphasizes finding solutions through a ‘Whole-of-Government’ and ‘Whole-of-Society’ approach to protect society from the scourge of drug abuse.
These comprehensive efforts signify a robust government strategy to counter drug trafficking and promote public safety, ensuring organized networks do not thrive in India’s capital.
