Gujarat Police's State Monitoring Cell (SMC) arrested two Nigerian nationals with drugs worth ₹1.26 crore (approximately $15.3 million USD), marking another significant crackdown on drug trafficking.
New Delhi: The Gujarat Police's State Monitoring Cell (SMC) apprehended two Nigerian citizens in Vapi, Valsad, while they were en route from Mumbai to deliver drugs. The seized drugs amounted to ₹1.26 crore, including 252 grams of MD drugs. The suspects were connected to an individual they referred to as 'Chachu'.
One of the accused, Kelechikwu Francis, had a prior arrest in 2022 for drug trafficking. Police are currently investigating to identify other members of this network and uncover the full extent of their drug supply chain.
Swift Police Raid
Acting on intelligence received by the SMC, a raid was conducted in Vapi, Valsad, leading to the arrest of Kelechikwu Francis and Akimwanmi David. Both were traveling in a taxi and residing in Maharashtra. They were acting on instructions from 'Chachu' to deliver the drugs in Gujarat.
Prior Arrest Record
Investigations revealed that Kelechikwu Francis was previously arrested in 2022 under the NDPS Act. Released from prison in January 2025, he had resumed his involvement in drug trafficking. The police are actively pursuing other members of the gang and tracing the drug distribution network.
Increased Vigilance Against Drug Trafficking in the State
Gujarat Police have intensified their surveillance on drug trafficking within the state. This is the second major case involving the arrest of foreign drug traffickers and a large drug seizure since the SMC gained permanent police station status. Last month, the SMC also arrested a Nigerian woman with drugs worth ₹1.5 crore (approximately $18.2 million USD).
This action demonstrates the proactive role of both the Gujarat Police and the SMC in combating drug trafficking and their heightened vigilance against international networks.
