Crackdown on Foreign Nationals: India Targets Overstaying Expats in Drug Trafficking Probe

India is intensifying efforts to locate and act against around 16,000 overstaying foreign nationals, primarily from African countries, for alleged involvement in drug trafficking. The Narcotics Control Bureau has urged state authorities to enforce the Foreigners Act, amid rising concerns of drug-related crimes committed by these individuals.

The Indian government has stepped up measures targeting foreign nationals overstaying their visas, many of whom are suspected of engaging in drug-related offenses. Sources from the Narcotics Control Bureau state that around 16,000 such individuals, predominantly from African nations, are under scrutiny.

The Centre has directed states and Union territories to enforce the amended Foreigners Act, suggesting firm action against these suspects. This initiative follows alarming findings that numerous foreigners, including repeat offenders, are caught up in drug trafficking networks across the country.

An NCB report for 2024 highlights that 660 foreign nationals were arrested for links to drug crimes, with the highest numbers coming from Nepal and Nigeria. The government aims to curtail these illegal activities and rehabilitate border controls effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)