HM Amit Shah Lauds NCB–Delhi Police Team for Busting Mega Trans-National Methamphetamine Cartel Under Operation ‘Crystal Fortress’

Operation yields 328 kg of methamphetamine worth ₹262 crore; one of the biggest seizures in Delhi

Government intensifies crackdown on drug cartels with multi-agency coordination

New Delhi, November 24: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah congratulated the joint team of the Narcotics Control Bureau and Delhi Police for dismantling a major trans-national methamphetamine cartel under Operation Crystal Fortress.

In a post on X, the Home Minister said the government is “shattering drug cartels at unprecedented pace,” highlighting that a breakthrough was achieved with the seizure of 328 kg of methamphetamine valued at ₹262 crore in New Delhi and the arrest of two individuals. He described the operation as a strong example of seamless multi-agency coordination to advance the government’s vision of a drug-free India.

The Narcotics Control Bureau’s OPS Branch, in collaboration with the Delhi Police Special Cell (CI), seized approximately 328 kg of high-quality methamphetamine from a residence in Chhatarpur, Delhi, on 20 November as part of the coordinated, intelligence-driven operation targeting high-volume synthetic drug networks.

The action followed months of surveillance, intelligence gathering, and technical intercepts, which exposed a sophisticated trafficking chain. Two suspects — including a woman from Nagaland — were arrested with support from Nagaland Police after the bulk seizure was made from their residence. Investigators have also identified other operatives, including the alleged kingpin operating from abroad, who is wanted in connection with the 82.5 kg cocaine seizure in Delhi last year. Efforts are under way with international partners to secure his deportation to India.

Officials said this seizure is one of the biggest methamphetamine hauls in Delhi. Preliminary findings indicate the cartel operated through multiple couriers, safe houses, and layered handlers, using the capital as a distribution hub for both domestic and international markets.

Operation Crystal Fortress underscores NCB’s ongoing focus on dismantling synthetic drug cartels and their trans-national networks. The agency has urged citizens to support the fight against narcotics by reporting information related to drug trafficking through MANAS — the National Narcotics Helpline — at toll-free number 1933.