NCB Launches Operation Trident Against Narco-Cartels
Ministry of Home Affairs · Security · Posted 25 OCT 2026 3:22PM
What happened
The Narcotics Control Bureau, in coordination with state police forces and the Enforcement Directorate, launched 'Operation Trident' across 38 locations in Assam, Mizoram, and Manipur to dismantle an international narco-cartel. The synchronized crackdown led to 18 arrests, the seizure of cash and detonators, the freezing of 1,424 bank accounts, and the uncovering of ₹100 crore in hawala transactions.
Why it matters for UPSC
This multi-agency operation highlights India's internal security strategy against cross-border drug trafficking and financial syndicates, relevant to UPSC syllabus themes on internal security, border management, and prevention of organized crime.
Key objectives
- NCB, Mizoram Police, and ED launched 'Operation Trident' on 23 October 2026 across 38 locations in Assam, Mizoram, and Manipur.
- Revealed ₹100 crore in hawala transactions, froze 1,424 bank accounts, attached properties worth ₹17.82 crore, seized 500 detonators and ₹12 lakh in cash, and arrested 18 people.
- Aims to dismantle the transnational drug trafficking network operating through the Death Triangle Corridor across India, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, supporting the goal of eradicating drug networks by 31 December 2029.