Operation ‘Med Max’: In one of the most far-reaching crackdowns on illicit pharmaceutical trafficking, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has dismantled a massive transnational drug syndicate operating across four continents and more than 10 countries.
Following the success of this high-stakes investigation, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah congratulated the NCB and all collaborating agencies, stating, “The Modi-led government is determined to saw off every drug cartel and protect our youth, no matter where they operate from.”
Taking to X, Shah posted, “Congratulations to NCB and all agencies on busting a global drug cartel. The probe set a stellar example of multi-agency coordination, resulting in 8 arrests and seizures of 5 consignments while triggering crackdowns in the US and Australia against the ring that operates across 4 continents and 10+ nations. Our agencies are constantly monitoring the sophisticated modes like crypto payments and anonymous drop shippers used by these gangs.
“PM Shri @narendramodi Ji led govt is determined to saw off every drug cartel and protect our youth, no matter where they operate from,” the post further read.
Congratulations to NCB and all agencies on busting a global drug cartel.
The probe set a stellar example of multi-agency coordination, resulting in 8 arrests and seizures of 5 consignments while triggering crackdowns in the US and Australia against the ring that operates across…
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) July 2, 2025
From Delhi to the world: How it unravelled
The investigation—codenamed Operation Med Max—began with a routine vehicle interception on 25 May 2025 near Mandi House in Delhi. NCB officials seized 3.7 kilograms of Tramadol tablets from two B Pharma graduates.
Their confessions led investigators to an extensive digital and physical network involving vendors on Indian B2B platforms selling controlled medicines to clients in the US, Europe, and Australia.
This local bust triggered a nationwide and international operation.
Leads pointed to a stockist in Roorkee, a handler in Delhi’s Mayur Vihar, and a contact in Udupi (Karnataka) coordinating bulk international shipments.
Investigators found records of 50 global consignments—29 to the US, 18 to Australia, and one each to Estonia, Spain, and Switzerland.
Global crackdowns and international coordination
The data was, however, promptly shared with international partners and Interpol.
Acting on Indian intelligence, the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested a key syndicate player, Joel Hall, in Alabama.
Authorities seized over 17,000 controlled tablets, cryptocurrency wallets, and multiple packages in transit.
An Indian-American money launderer associated with the syndicate has also been indicted.
Meanwhile, in Australia, authorities dismantled an illegal pill-manufacturing unit tied to the same syndicate. This showcased the breadth of the operation and the strength of global coordination.
Encrypted channels, crypto payments, and sophisticated logistics
The syndicate operated with near-total anonymity. Communications were encrypted via Telegram, payments made through cryptocurrency, PayPal, and Western Union, and deliveries handled by anonymous international drop shippers.
Two more individuals from New Delhi and Jaipur, responsible for logistics and supply, were also arrested.
NCB traced the financial and operational command centre to the UAE, where the syndicate’s kingpin—who orchestrated supply chains and managed cryptocurrency flow—has been identified. Action is underway in coordination with the UAE authorities.
Digital platforms, call centres, and commission-based model
Investigations further revealed a complex operating model. The syndicate used premium vendor accounts on popular B2B platforms to attract international buyers.
Orders were handled via a call centre in Udupi, which employed around 10 staff members—some reportedly unaware of the operation’s illegal nature.
Once orders were confirmed, payments were collected in crypto. They were then routed through layered commission structures—15% for the order module and 10% for supply handlers and re-shippers.
Repeat buyers were often converted into regional stockists or re-shippers, further embedding them into the network.
Financial and cyber probes underway
With 8 arrests and multiple links exposed, NCB is now focused on:
- Tracing crypto wallets,
- Hawala networks, and
- Online pharmacies promoting controlled substances
Private platforms are, however, being engaged to curb illegal pharma sales, and intelligence-sharing with global partners remains active.
Home Minister’s firm warning
Amit Shah’s message reflects the government’s zero-tolerance approach to narcotics. He emphasised that such syndicates will not be allowed to exploit Indian soil or youth through high-tech criminal operations.
This multi-country operation, led by India, has, however, set a benchmark in international drug enforcement. It exposes how digital ecosystems, cryptocurrencies, and global logistics are increasingly intertwined in modern drug cartels.
Also Read: A Decade Of Digital Progress: India Sets Sights On Global Tech Leadership
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