Mumbai: Police Bust International Drug Racket, Seize Charas Worth Rs 2.81 Crore; 4 Arrested

In a major crackdown, the Mumbai Crime Branch have busted an international charas supply racket and seized narcotic substances worth ₹2.81 crore. Four persons, including two Nepalese nationals, a local peddler and his wife who allegedly assisted in financial transactions, have been arrested in connection with the case.

The main accused have been identified as Deepak Lamba (28) and Sundar Arun (33), both residents of Chitwan, Nepal. According to police officials, the duo had travelled from Nepal to Mumbai carrying high-quality charas. They were staying at a hotel in the Andheri area and were preparing to distribute the contraband when police, acting on specific intelligence inputs, laid a trap and apprehended them from Bandra.

Anti Narcotics Cell of Worli Unit seized approximately 1.7 kilograms of high-grade charas from their possession. Sources said the seized contraband, commonly referred to in the market as “joint hash”, is allegedly consumed among the affluent class and in certain circles within the film industry.

In this connection, the Worli Unit registered an offence on February 25, 2026, under Sections 8(c), 20(c), and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Initially, 1.715 kg of charas and ₹55,000 in cash were recovered from the two accused. Subsequently, a 28-year-old woman, who allegedly aided in financial dealings related to the drug trade, was arrested on February 27.

During investigation, it was revealed that the accused had come to supply charas to a couple residing in Vile Parle. The main local accused, identified as Abid alias Bablu, reportedly did not reside at the location where the drugs were stored and frequently changed his whereabouts to evade police detection.

Police officials stated that the operation has dealt a significant blow to an international drug trafficking network operating in Mumbai. Further investigation is underway.