Nigerian woman arrested in India for smuggling psychotropic substances

Indian authorities have apprehended a Nigerian woman, Faith Racheal, on charges of smuggling and supplying a substantial quantity of psychotropic substances.

The arrest, which took place on August 14 in the Mehrauli area of Delhi, marks a significant bust in the fight against drug trafficking.

According to police reports, Racheal was found in possession of 3.87 kilograms of mescaline, a powerful hallucinogenic drug. The seized quantity has an estimated value of around Rs 15 crore in the international market, making this a high-stakes operation.

“Mescaline, a psychedelic substance with effects similar to LSD and Psilocybin (magic mushrooms), has been identified as a party drug,” officials stated. The drug was ingeniously smuggled inside packages of branded toffees and fish food, showcasing the lengths smugglers will go to evade detection.

Racheal’s journey to India began in August 2022, when she arrived on a medical visa. However, her stay took a dark turn as she overstayed her visa and became entangled in the illicit drug trade.

“Racheal had overstayed her visa and remained in India, where she came into contact with a Nigerian national involved in drug smuggling,” police revealed.

This connection led her to become a member of a narcotics cartel, facilitating the delivery of narcotic substances between couriers with the assistance of her Nigerian associate.

The arrest was the result of meticulous police work following a tip-off. A raid conducted on August 14 in Mehrauli led to Racheal’s capture and the recovery of 3.8 kg of mescaline, hidden inside branded toffee and fish food packaging. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Amit Kaushik confirmed the details, emphasizing the sophisticated methods used by smugglers to transport drugs.

Mescaline, a naturally occurring hallucinogen derived from the Mexican Peyote cactus and the San Pedro cactus native to Peru and Ecuador, can be found in various forms, including powder, tablets, capsules, or liquid. Its potent hallucinogenic properties have made it a sought-after substance in the illegal drug market.