Darknet – International Online Drug Network Busted; Two Arrested by NCB
Darknet – Indian authorities have dismantled a nationwide narcotics distribution network that allegedly operated through the dark web and maintained links with international suppliers in several European countries. Officials from the Narcotics Control Bureau confirmed on Sunday that two individuals connected to the operation have been arrested following a detailed investigation that uncovered the group’s sophisticated smuggling methods.
The federal agency also reported the seizure of a large quantity of illegal substances during the operation. The recovered materials include 2,338 LSD blotters, 160 MDMA tablets, approximately 3.6 kilograms of liquid MDMA, along with smaller quantities of charas and amphetamine. Some of the intercepted parcels were traced back to shipments originating from the Netherlands.
Investigation Reveals International Dark Web Links
According to investigators, the drug network relied heavily on darknet marketplaces and encrypted communication platforms to conduct its activities. Authorities believe that the accused sourced synthetic drugs from overseas darknet vendors located in countries such as the Netherlands, Poland, and Germany.
The operation functioned by receiving orders through anonymous online platforms and then dispatching the narcotics across various parts of India using regular courier and parcel services. Payments were reportedly made using cryptocurrencies, allowing the group to avoid traditional financial monitoring systems and conceal their monetary transactions.
Officials noted that the use of cryptocurrency and encrypted messaging significantly complicated efforts to track the group’s activities, as these technologies allow users to obscure digital footprints and identities.
Accused Identified as Repeat Offenders
The NCB identified the two arrested suspects as Anurag Thakur and Vikas Rathi. Authorities said the pair allegedly ran a darknet vendor profile known as “Team Kalki,” which was involved in supplying drugs to buyers across the country.
Investigators stated that both individuals have a history of involvement in narcotics-related crimes. They were previously arrested under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985. Rathi had earlier served time in Tihar Jail for a case involving charas trafficking, while Thakur had been imprisoned for methamphetamine smuggling.
Officials believe the two met while they were incarcerated at Tihar Jail during the same period. After their release, they allegedly joined forces and began operating their darknet-based narcotics distribution network.
Operations Conducted Through Encrypted Platforms
Authorities revealed that the suspects initially operated on a well-known dark web discussion forum called Dread. The vendor profile associated with the suspects reportedly maintained a four-star rating on the platform, suggesting that numerous transactions had been completed successfully.
After establishing a customer base on the forum, the suspects reportedly expanded their communication channels to the encrypted messaging application Session. This shift allowed them to interact with buyers directly while maintaining anonymity and limiting the possibility of digital surveillance.
Investigators say these platforms enabled customers from different parts of India to place orders discreetly without revealing their identities.
Courier Network Used to Distribute Drugs Nationwide
Once an order was received through encrypted platforms, the suspects allegedly coordinated shipments through associates who arranged deliveries via standard courier and parcel services. This method allowed the drugs to move through regular logistics networks, making detection more difficult.
Authorities believe the network had established a distribution footprint that extended across multiple Indian states. The use of ordinary delivery channels and coded communication reportedly helped the group avoid early detection.
The Narcotics Control Bureau said further investigation is underway to identify additional members of the network, including potential international suppliers and domestic distributors who may have assisted in transporting or selling the narcotics.
Officials also indicated that more arrests could follow as investigators continue to examine digital evidence, financial transactions, and seized communication records connected to the case.