Narcotics Control Bureau Makes Major Breakthrough in Securing Drug Trafficker

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has extradited notorious drug trafficker Mohammad Salim Dola from Türkiye, marking a significant victory in India's fight against international narcotics networks. This development is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, which covers internal security and international relations. Last Updated: 29-04-2026

Key Facts About Operation Global-Hunt

• Operation Global-Hunt is a strategic initiative aimed at dismantling 100 international drug networks operated by Indian fugitives.
• It targets traffickers dealing in heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, and synthetic drugs, using tools such as INTERPOL notices and asset freezing.
• The operation involves coordinated action among Indian agencies, including the NCB, Mumbai Police, and Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in collaboration with international authorities.
• This initiative is part of India’s broader “zero tolerance” anti-narcotics policy, enhanced through the Narco Coordination Centre (NCORD).
• The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) was established in 1986 under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
• India is a signatory to international conventions like the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, 1961, and the UN Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, 1988.

India's Global Anti-Narcotics Strategy

India's strategic efforts to combat drug trafficking align with its broader goals of ensuring national security and maintaining international peace. The extradition of Mohammad Salim Dola underscores India's commitment to international cooperation and law enforcement. These efforts are crucial for enhancing India's global standing and achieving its economic and social objectives, as drug trafficking poses significant threats to public health and safety.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Internal Security, International Relations
• Prelims: Questions could focus on the objectives and key features of Operation Global-Hunt, and the role of the NCB.
• Mains: Analytical themes could include India's anti-narcotics strategy and international cooperation in law enforcement.
• Essay Paper: Topics on global crime networks and India's role in international law enforcement.

FAQ Section

• What is Operation Global-Hunt? Operation Global-Hunt is a strategic initiative by India to dismantle international drug networks operated by Indian fugitives, focusing on traffickers dealing in heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, and synthetic drugs.
• Why is Operation Global-Hunt important? It is crucial for disrupting major drug trafficking networks, thereby enhancing national security and public safety, and demonstrating India's commitment to international law enforcement collaboration.
• What are the key features of the Narcotics Control Bureau? The NCB is India's apex drug law enforcement agency, established under the NDPS Act, 1985, and plays a vital role in coordinating national and international anti-drug efforts.