‘Operation Global Hunt’: India moves to bring back 20 drug suspects from Gulf, Europe

Kochi: Investigative agencies have begun efforts to bring around 20 people living abroad back to India in connection with various drug cases. More than 100 people operating from foreign countries have been identified by the agencies.

The action is part of 'Operation Global Hunt', being carried out jointly by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, the Ministry of External Affairs and investigative agencies to bring the accused back to India.

Among those identified are 12 people, including Malayalis who have been living abroad for years, who are wanted in drug cases registered by the Kerala Police. The remaining suspects are involved in cases registered by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

The suspects are allegedly key links in networks involved in trafficking cocaine, heroin, LSD and other drugs from Europe and Gulf countries to India and international markets. Several of their agents have already been arrested.
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Operation Global Hunt

The operation is being led by the CBI, NCB and investigation agencies from various states, with assistance from the Ministry of External Affairs and Interpol.

Interpol Red Corner Notices will be issued against the accused. Their passports will subsequently be cancelled, while efforts to deport them will be coordinated with the authorities of the respective foreign countries.

Once brought back to India, the accused will be arrested and handed over to the concerned investigative agencies.