Nigerian Arrested in India Over MDMA, Ecstasy Seizure Valued at N800m

Indian police have arrested a Nigerian national in Bengaluru over alleged possession of MDMA and ecstasy pills valued at more than ₦800 million in the international drug market.

The Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Central Crime Branch, Bengaluru, said the suspect, Ernest Onyekachi Ugah, 45, was arrested on Monday night, January 19, 2026, following intelligence-led surveillance.

Police said Ugah was operating from a rented apartment in the Munnekolalu area under the Marathahalli police station jurisdiction. During the operation, officers recovered 2.5 kilograms of MDMA and 300 ecstasy pills, estimated at ₹5.15 crore.

According to investigators, Ugah has two previous cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act registered at the Hennur and Kadugodi police stations in Bengaluru. He was recently released from prison and had remained under close monitoring due to his alleged continued involvement in drug-related activities.

Police disclosed that Ugah entered India about five years ago for medical treatment but overstayed his visa. Despite its expiration, he reportedly continued living in the country and engaging in criminal activities.

A fresh case has been filed against him under the NDPS Act. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify the source of the drugs, trace distribution networks, and arrest other individuals linked to the operation.

The Anti-Narcotics Wing also raised concerns over delays in prosecuting repeat offenders, particularly foreign nationals. Officers noted that prolonged trials often allow suspects to obtain bail and resume criminal activities, calling for faster judicial processes and stricter bail conditions in drug-related cases.