Police busts drug trafficking network running throughout northern India with focus on Shimla

Extensive drug trafficking network in North India exposed, with arrests made in Kolkata, Delhi, and Shimla.

The arrest of two individuals -- one from Kolkata and one from Delhi -- has revealed the operation of an extensive drug trafficking network throughout North India, with a particular focus on Himachal Pradesh's capital, Shimla.

According to Shimla Superintendent of Police (SP) Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, the syndicate was an organised supply chain facilitated by online bookings through various social media platforms. Innocent people’s accounts were being misused, and drugs were being delivered through couriers, he said.

The modus operandi was exposed following the arrest of interstate drug kingpin Sandeep Shah from Kolkata earlier this month. Mr. Shah was supplying chitta (adulterated heroin) through an interstate drug nexus. His close associate, Neeraj Kashyap from Mehrauli, South Delhi, was also arrested.

Mr. Shah, based in Kolkata, procured drug demand through local contacts using virtual numbers and social networking sites. Communication was conducted via WhatsApp, and payments were deposited into associates’ accounts in Delhi through Unified Payment Interface (UPI) after misusing the accounts of innocent people.

The delivery was then made near the client's home without any direct contact.

"About 500 people are involved in this dubious trade, and the delivery is made by confirming the location through photographs and other details. The exact location where the drugs are kept is shared with the client after payment is confirmed," Mr. Gandhi said.

The police explained that a consumable quantity of heroin is five grams, while a commercial quantity is 250 grams. Most of the chitta is smuggled in consumable quantities to evade punishment, as consumable quantities are bailable.