Indian police have arrested a Nigerian national and two other suspects in an alleged cocaine supply network operating in Chandigarh and surrounding areas, recovering cocaine, three vehicles and an ATM card during the investigation.

The Nigerian suspect, identified as Ezeaputa Charles Chijoke, was arrested on October 6 after investigators allegedly linked him to the supply of cocaine to two other suspects, according to the police account published in Indian media.

Authorities said approximately 113 grams of cocaine were recovered during the operation, which began on October 4. The investigation is focused on an alleged supply network operating across Chandigarh and the surrounding tri-city region.

How the investigation began

According to police, the operation began with the arrest of Rakesh Kumar, also known as Karan, near Sector 23-C market in Chandigarh on October 4.

Police allegedly recovered 22.1 grams of cocaine from Kumar, who reportedly worked as a private cab driver.

During questioning, Kumar allegedly identified Jaskaran Singh Gill as his supplier. Police said Gill was arrested in Dehradun on the same day.

Investigators alleged that Kumar supplied cocaine to clubgoers and partygoers on Gill’s instructions, receiving 500 Indian rupees for each delivery.

Police further alleged that Gill obtained cocaine from Chijoke and coordinated deliveries through Kumar.

The allegations have not been presented here as established findings of a court.

Nigerian suspect allegedly linked to supply chain

Police identified Chijoke as a Nigerian national who had been living in Kharar, Punjab.

According to the police account, Chijoke allegedly supplied cocaine to Gill, who then coordinated its distribution through Kumar.

Authorities said Chijoke was arrested on October 6 with approximately 70.5 grams of cocaine.

Police also alleged that he failed to produce his passport and was staying illegally in India. His immigration status and the drug allegations remain matters for the relevant authorities and legal process.

The allegations against the three suspects have not been established as convictions.

Three vehicles and ATM card recovered

During the investigation, police reportedly recovered an additional 21.30 grams of cocaine, along with a Mercedes-Benz, a Mitsubishi Pajero, a Tata Safari and an ATM card allegedly linked to financial transactions involving Gill.

Investigators suspect that the three vehicles were purchased with proceeds from drug-related activities.

Authorities are examining the alleged financial links as part of efforts to establish how the network operated and whether additional individuals were involved.

The recovery of the vehicles and ATM card could form part of the financial investigation, although the allegations surrounding the assets would need to be established through evidence.

Investigation continues

Police said investigations into the alleged cocaine supply network were continuing.

The case raises questions about how suspected drug distribution networks obtain their supplies, coordinate deliveries and move proceeds from alleged criminal activity.

However, the arrest of one Nigerian national does not establish that Nigerians generally are involved in drug trafficking. Responsibility must be determined on the evidence against each individual suspect.

The next stage of the case will depend on the evidence gathered by investigators and the legal proceedings against the accused.

Yaro Insider will continue to follow developments in the case as further verified information becomes available.

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