In one of the biggest crackdowns on synthetic narcotics in recent years, the Narcotics Control Bureau (OPS Branch), in coordination with the Delhi Police Special Cell (CI), seized 328.54 kg of high-quality methamphetamine from a residence in Chhattarpur on November 20. The international market value of the seized drugs is estimated at ₹262 crore.
The operation, code-named “Crystal Fortress”, was the culmination of months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and technical intercepts targeting a trans-national synthetic drug cartel.
Two Arrested; International Links Exposed
The NCB has arrested two accused so far, including a woman from Nagaland, identified as Esther Kinimi. The first breakthrough came with the arrest of Shane Waris (25), a resident of Mangrauli village in Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, who lived in a rented flat in Noida.
During interrogation, Shane revealed critical information about the cartel’s communication methods and handlers. He admitted using fake SIM cards and encrypted communication apps like WhatsApp and Zangi on the instructions of his “boss”, believed to be a foreign operative running the network remotely.
Shane also provided details about Esther, including her address and telephone number. Based on this lead, the NCB arrested her and raided her Chhattarpur flat, where the massive quantity of methamphetamine was recovered.
Night Raid in Chhattarpur
Acting on Shane’s disclosures, NCB teams conducted a late-night raid at Chhattarpur Enclave Phase-II on November 20. Officers found neatly packed high-grade methamphetamine stored inside the premises. Sources say the scale of the recovery is among the largest in recent NCB operations.
Investigators believe the cartel operated through a network of couriers, handlers, and multiple safe houses, using Delhi as a hub for distribution across India and abroad.
Foreign Kingpin Already Wanted in India
The cartel’s suspected foreign mastermind is already wanted in an earlier case involving the seizure of 82.5 kg of high-grade cocaine by the NCB in Delhi last year. Indian agencies, along with international enforcement partners, are now working to bring him to India to face prosecution.
Amit Shah Praises NCB and Delhi Police
Union Home Minister Amit Shah congratulated the NCB and Delhi Police for the success of Operation Crystal Fortress. In a post on X, he said the bust is a major step toward Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a drug-free India.
He added that the government is dismantling drug networks through both top-to-bottom and bottom-to-top enforcement strategies, with this operation being a shining example of seamless coordination among multiple agencies.
NCB Urges Citizens to Share Information
The NCB stated that Operation Crystal Fortress reflects its strong commitment to eliminating synthetic drug cartels and their international networks. Citizens have been urged to report drug-related activities by calling the National Narcotics Helpline (MANAS) – 1933.
With investigations still underway, officials expect more arrests and recoveries in the coming days as the full extent of this trans-national drug syndicate is uncovered.