Why in news?
On 20 November 2025, a joint team of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Delhi Police’s Special Cell seized approximately 328 kilograms of high‑grade methamphetamine worth about ₹262 crore from a house in the Chhatarpur area of south Delhi. The intelligence‑driven crackdown, dubbed Operation Crystal Fortress, led to the arrest of two suspects and is one of the largest meth seizures ever recorded in the capital.
Background on methamphetamine
Methamphetamine—also known as meth, crystal or ice—is a synthetic stimulant that acts on the central nervous system. It can induce euphoria and increased energy but is highly addictive and can cause serious cardiovascular and neurological damage. Because it is relatively easy to manufacture in clandestine labs, meth has become a major illicit drug worldwide. In India, production, sale and possession of methamphetamine are prohibited under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.
Details of the operation
- Surveillance and arrest: Law‑enforcement agencies conducted months of surveillance, electronic intercepts and coordination across states. They first arrested Shane Waris from Noida, who allegedly coordinated deliveries using fake SIM cards and encrypted messaging apps.
- Seizure in Chhatarpur: Acting on Waris’ information, officers raided a rented house in Chhatarpur Enclave Phase‑2 where they discovered the methamphetamine hidden inside box‑beds. A woman named Esther Kimmi from Nagaland, who ran the guesthouse, was arrested with help from the Nagaland Police.
- Transnational cartel: Investigators believe the drugs were supplied by a foreign‑based kingpin involved in an earlier cocaine seizure. The network used multiple couriers, safe houses and encrypted communications. Authorities are working with international agencies to track down the mastermind.
Implications
- Major disruption: The seizure deals a significant blow to synthetic drug syndicates operating in India and demonstrates improved cooperation between central and state agencies.
- Community impact: Methamphetamine addiction fuels social problems such as crime, health crises and family breakdown. Large seizures remove dangerous substances from circulation.
- Need for vigilance: The case highlights the importance of intelligence‑sharing and vigilance among law‑enforcement agencies to dismantle transnational drug networks.
Conclusion
Operation Crystal Fortress underscores the scale and sophistication of synthetic drug trafficking. Continued collaboration between agencies and public awareness about the dangers of methamphetamine are essential to keep communities safe and uphold the rule of law.
Sources: PIB,
