Key Suspect in Drug Trafficking Ring Nabbed in Uttar Pradesh

A prominent suspect tied to an alleged cross-border drug trafficking operation has been detained by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force, in collaboration with the Goa Police crime branch, in Bahraich.

The individual apprehended is identified as Akhlaq Ahmed, alias Manna Malik. His arrest followed the capture of three Nepal-origin youths in Goa, who reportedly disclosed his role in procuring narcotics from Nepal.

Authorities gathered technical surveillance and intelligence, leading to a coordinated operation with Bahraich police. The police believe the network uses the Uttar Pradesh-Nepal border to smuggle drugs into India, affecting multiple states, including Goa.

Investigation suggests the network has operated for a significant time, exploiting the porous border. Efforts continue to uncover others involved and quantify drug consignments dispatched nationwide.

(With inputs from agencies.)