Bengaluru Drug Bust: Rs 8 Crore Khat Seized
A significant drug bust in Bengaluru has unveiled a major international syndicate involved in the trafficking of khat, a banned stimulant. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) recently seized approximately 160 kg of khat valued at around Rs 8 crore. This seizure marks the largest haul of khat in Karnataka since it was classified as a psychotropic substance in 2018.
The NCB's investigation revealed that the contraband was smuggled into India through an elaborate route originating from Ethiopia, passing through Kenya. This indicates the operation of a well-organized transnational drug syndicate that spans over 20 countries, including regions in the Middle East and Europe.
According to officials, the syndicate sent over 550 parcels weighing approximately 2,100 kg to various destinations including North America and the Gulf countries. These parcels were cleverly disguised as ordinary commercial items, primarily tea, to evade detection by authorities.
The network’s operations involved multiple layers, utilizing storage and distribution points within Bengaluru to break the bulk shipments. Smaller quantities of khat were then distributed throughout the city, indicating a sophisticated operation that poses serious risks to local communities.
Notably, the syndicate's members were predominantly foreign nationals, some posing as students or individuals on medical visas. This aspect raises concerns about the involvement of international students in drug trafficking, potentially impacting their reputation and safety in India.
The NCB is actively collaborating with international agencies to share information about the in-transit parcels, seeking coordinated action to disrupt the syndicate's operations globally. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges of drug trafficking and the need for vigilant enforcement.
Understanding khat is crucial in this context. Khat (Catha edulis) is a flowering shrub native to the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula. Its leaves contain psychoactive compounds cathinone and cathine, which produce effects similar to amphetamines when chewed. Due to its stimulant properties, khat is classified as a controlled substance in India, making its trafficking illegal.
The recent bust not only highlights the complexities of drug trafficking but also emphasizes the need for greater awareness and education about such substances to protect vulnerable populations, especially students.
