The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has intensified its crackdown on Haji Salim, an infamous drug kingpin referred to as the “Lord of Drugs,” following massive drug seizures linked to his global cartel. The ongoing operation seeks to dismantle Salim’s vast smuggling network, believed to be fueling narco-terrorism in the region.
Operation Sagar Manthan
Under the directive of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the NCB launched Operation Sagar Manthan earlier this year. This collaborative effort involves the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, and the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) of the Gujarat Police, aiming to combat the maritime trafficking of illicit drugs that poses a significant threat to national security.
The Elusive Drug Lord
Haji Salim, one of the most wanted traffickers in the Indian Ocean region, is the mastermind behind a sprawling drug pipeline spanning Pakistan, India, and other nations, including Mauritius, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. International law enforcement agencies in countries such as the United States, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Afghanistan have also been hunting for Salim.
Describing the extent of Salim’s criminal activities, Deputy Director General of NCB, Gyaneshwar Singh, said, “He is one of the biggest drug traffickers in the world. He supplies large shipments of heroin, methamphetamine, and other illegal narcotics through a complex network that spans across Asia, Africa, and the West.” Singh added that Salim’s operations are of an unprecedented scale, directly linked to narco-terrorism activities destabilizing the region.
Salim’s Network and Methods
Salim’s syndicate has been active for years, employing sophisticated methods to transport narcotics across borders. Intelligence reports indicate that his shipments often originate from Iran, travel through Afghanistan and Malaysia, and eventually reach Sri Lanka. From there, smaller vessels transport the drugs to the Indian coastline, often under the cover of darkness.
Authorities revealed that Salim uses distinctive markings—such as “777,” “555,” “999,” flying horses, and scorpions—to identify his drug shipments. Despite major confiscations, Salim’s operations continue unabated, earning him the nickname “Raktbeej”, a mythical figure that regenerates after every fall.
A History of Smuggling
Haji Salim’s syndicate first came to light in 2015 when a massive drug consignment was intercepted near Kerala’s coast. Since then, authorities have linked him to multiple high-value drug hauls. Under Operation Sagar Manthan, nearly 4,000 kilograms of narcotics have been seized so far, and drugs worth an estimated ₹40,000 crores have been confiscated over the last two and a half years.
Officials say Salim has connections with fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim. Intelligence sources claim Salim has been spotted entering and leaving Dawood’s mansion, strengthening suspicions of a collaboration.
Technology and Recruitment
Salim reportedly uses advanced technology, such as satellite phones provided by Pakistan’s ISI, to stay in constant touch with his agents at sea. Authorities also allege that Salim recruits unemployed youth from Balochistan to execute smuggling operations, offering them lucrative payments for high-risk missions.
The Challenge Ahead
Despite efforts by multiple international and national agencies, Salim remains elusive. Apart from an old photograph and an address in Karachi, believed to be near Dawood Ibrahim’s hideout, authorities have little information about the drug lord.
“Haji Salim has been on our radar for a long time, but the investigation is still at an early stage,” Singh noted, underlining the challenges of apprehending a criminal of such magnitude.
A Threat to Regional Security
Officials assert that Salim’s cartel not only floods societies with illegal narcotics but also finances terror operations across borders. “His drugs are not only a menace to society but also fund terror operations across borders,” Singh stated, emphasizing the dual threat posed by Salim’s activities.
A Long Road Ahead
The NCB, along with its partners, continues its relentless pursuit of Haji Salim. The fight against his drug empire, however, is far from over. With international connections, sophisticated smuggling techniques, and a resilient network, dismantling Salim’s operations remains one of the most formidable challenges in the war against narco-terrorism.
As Operation Sagar Manthan unfolds, authorities remain determined to neutralize Salim’s influence and bring him to justice, a mission critical to safeguarding regional stability and public safety.