By Prosper Mene
A 41-year-old Nigerian woman, identified as Sarah Kumama, also known by aliases “Happiness” and “Blessings,” was arrested in Bengaluru on Thursday, June 26, 2025, for her alleged involvement in a sprawling transnational cocaine distribution network. The arrest, executed by a special team from the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit (ANIU) and Greater Chennai Police, marks a significant breakthrough in a months-long crackdown that has led to the apprehension of 25 individuals across Tamil Nadu since January.
The operation began on January 25, 2025, when Choolaimedu Police, acting on a tip-off, arrested Fayas Ahamed, 31, of Royapettah, and S. Chandrasekar, 35, of Koyambedu, in Chennai, seizing cocaine in their possession. Their confessions unraveled a complex drug cartel, leading to the arrest of 24 others, including two Nigerian nationals—one from Bengaluru and another from Mumbai—prior to Kumama’s apprehension. Analysis of call records and bank transactions revealed Kumama’s critical role in the network, prompting authorities to track her down in Bengaluru.
According to police sources, the syndicate operated across multiple cities, including Chennai, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, with connections extending internationally. Kumama, who went into hiding after earlier arrests of her associates, was identified as a key link in the cocaine supply chain, facilitating distribution to peddlers in Chennai and beyond. The investigation also uncovered ties to high-profile individuals, including Tamil actors Srikanth and Krishna, who were arrested earlier this week for allegedly purchasing cocaine from the cartel.
The Greater Chennai Police, in coordination with the ANIU, have intensified efforts to dismantle the network, with ongoing investigations to identify additional associates. Authorities seized narcotics, mobile phones, and cash during related operations, underscoring the scale of the racket. The bust highlights the growing challenge of transnational drug trafficking in India, with synthetic drugs like cocaine and MDMA increasingly prevalent in urban centers.
“This isn’t just a case of drug peddling; it’s an organized transnational racket targeting Indian youth,” said a senior police official involved in the operation. The public is urged to report drug-related activities confidentially via the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau helpline at 1908 or email tsnabho-hyd@tspolice.gov.in.
The case has sent shockwaves through Tamil Nadu, raising concerns about the nexus between drug cartels and influential figures. Further arrests and seizures are anticipated as the investigation continues to unfold.
