Indian law enforcement authorities have arrested a Nigerian national in connection with a large-scale drug trafficking operation, seizing narcotic substances valued at more than ₹5.15 crore (over ₦800 million) on the international market.
The Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Central Crime Branch (CCB) of the Bengaluru City Police confirmed on Tuesday that the suspect, Ernest Onyekachi Ugah, 45, was taken into custody following a targeted operation based on intelligence reports.
Details of the Arrest
Ugah was arrested on the night of Monday, January 19, 2026, at a rented residence in the Munnekolalu area, which falls under the Marathahalli police station jurisdiction. Police said he was allegedly engaged in the sale and distribution of narcotic drugs at the time of his arrest.
During the operation, officers recovered:
• 2.5 kilograms of MDMA, and
• 300 ecstasy pills
Authorities said the seized drugs have an estimated street value of ₹5.15 crore in the international illicit drug market.
Criminal History and Immigration Status
According to investigators, Ugah is not a first-time offender. He reportedly has two prior cases registered against him under India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at the Hennur and Kadugodi police stations in Bengaluru.
Police disclosed that Ugah had only recently been released from prison and had been under surveillance by the Anti-Narcotics Wing due to his past involvement in drug-related offences.
Officials also revealed that Ugah initially entered India about five years ago, reportedly for medical treatment, but overstayed after his visa expired. Despite his irregular immigration status, he allegedly continued to reside in the country and engage in criminal activities.
Ongoing Investigation
A fresh case has been registered against the suspect under the NDPS Act. Police say investigations are ongoing to:
• Trace the source of the seized narcotics
• Identify suppliers and distributors linked to the network
• Establish both backward and forward linkages in the drug trafficking chain
Call for Faster Prosecution
Senior Police officers used the occasion to call for fast-track trials, particularly in cases involving repeat offenders and foreign nationals. They argued that delays in prosecution often allow suspects to obtain bail and return to criminal activity.
Senior police “If such cases are expedited, convicted foreign nationals can be deported promptly. Prolonged trials and lenient bail conditions only encourage repeat offences,” an officer stated.
Authorities say further arrests are possible as investigations continue into the wider drug trafficking network operating in the city.
Source: Africa Publicity
