Emergence of Dark Web Drug Cartels Challenges Indian Narcotics Control Efforts

• •Drug trafficking is increasingly moving to the dark web, complicating enforcement efforts.
• •The NCB has reported 92 cases involving dark net and cryptocurrency transactions from 2020-2024.
• •Smaller, independent drug cartels are emerging, posing additional challenges to narcotics control.

Indian enforcement agencies are facing a new threat from drug trafficking networks operating via the dark web and cryptocurrencies. The narcotics trade is increasingly shifting from traditional smuggling routes, complicating investigations and financial tracking. An Intelligence Bureau official stated that drug cartels are now utilizing the dark web, making it difficult to trace transactions. The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) reported 92 cases involving the dark net and cryptocurrencies from 2020 to 2024. A recent bust revealed a pan-India drug distribution network, Team Kalki, sourcing drugs from Europe. This cartel utilized a drop-dead technique for deliveries and concealed financial transactions through intermediary wallets. The rise of smaller, independent cartels without backing from larger syndicates is also noted, complicating enforcement efforts further. The NCB is enhancing its technology and online surveillance to combat this evolving threat.