Nigerian Man Arrested in India with MDMA and Ecstasy Pills Worth Over ₦800 Million

🚨 Major drug bust in India 🚨 A Nigerian national has been arrested.

The Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Central Crime Branch of the Bengaluru city police has dismantled a major drug peddling operation, arresting a Nigerian man and recovering MDMA and ecstasy pills valued at over ₦800 million in the international market.

The suspect has been identified as Ernest Onyekachi Ugah, a 45-year-old Nigerian national, who was allegedly operating from a rented apartment in the Munnekolalu area under the Marathahalli police station limits in Bengaluru.

According to police officials, the arrest was carried out on Monday night, January 19, 2026, following intelligence-led surveillance. Officers reportedly seized 2.5 kilograms of MDMA and 300 ecstasy pills from his possession.

Investigations revealed that Ugah has two previous cases registered against him under India’s Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, at the Hennur and Kadugodi police stations. He was said to have been recently released from jail, prompting authorities to closely monitor his movements before making the arrest.

Police further disclosed that the suspect initially came to India around five years ago for medical treatment, but overstayed his visa and allegedly became involved in unlawful activities. His visa had expired, yet he continued residing in the country.

A fresh case has now been registered against him under the NDPS Act, while investigations are ongoing to trace the source of the drugs, uncover supply networks, and identify other individuals connected to the operation.

Authorities also highlighted the need for fast-track trials in drug-related cases involving repeat offenders and foreign nationals, warning that judicial delays often allow suspects to secure bail and continue criminal activities.

The case has sparked renewed conversations around drug enforcement, border control, and judicial efficiency in transnational crime cases.