In a well-coordinated operation, Mumbai NCB has successfully delivered a blow to the international drug syndicate, leading to the seizure of two kilograms of cocaine worth Rs 15 crore and the arrest of two key associates. The international network had its tentacles spread across multiple cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Goa, etc.
In an effort to curb drug trafficking in the festive season, Intelligence was gathered and it was noted that a notorious international drug syndicate had sketched a plan to smuggle cocaine into India. Urgent intervention led to identification of a carrier named LA Gilmore, a Zambian national. Further probe revealed that Gilmore was to arrive at a Mumbai-based hotel.
A team of NCB Mumbai officials was immediately deputed to mount surveillance at the hotel. On November 9, Gilmore was ascertained to have checked into the hotel. After a short while, he was intercepted and a search was conducted. Though initially no suspicious items were recovered from his belongings, a closer examination of the carry bag itself led to the identification of abnormalities along the bag layering. When it was cut open, two packets were recovered from the bag which contained cocaine weighing two kilograms.
Gilmore had visited Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from Lusaka, Zambia, for the drug consignment. He also mentioned about some intermediaries in the region linked with drug trafficking. During the investigation, it was observed that Gilmore was being directed by a handler. The communication with them was continued and they directed Gilmore to reach Delhi for the delivery of the baggage.
A Mumbai NCB team immediately reached Delhi and a trap was laid. A Tanzanian lady named MR Augustino, who was to receive the consignment from Gilmore, was intercepted and later arrested on November 11 in Delhi. Both the accused were taken into Mumbai NCB’s custody for further interrogation.
According to NCB, the demand for cocaine and other high-end party drugs has increased with the onset of the festive season.
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