The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has busted an internationally active drug trafficking network operating under the name ‘Team Kalki’, arresting two key accused. Investigations revealed that the gang had sent over 1,000 drug parcels domestically and internationally since January 2025. The network also used cryptocurrency to conceal its illegal earnings.
According to NCB sources, the arrested accused include the network’s primary operator Anurag Thakur and his associate Vikas Rathi. The gang mainly operated via the dark web. The accused used a delivery method called ‘Dead Drop’, where drug-laden parcels were placed at predetermined locations and customers were informed to pick them up themselves.
Investigations revealed that this technique was primarily used for customers who had previously placed multiple orders. The gang also relied on speed post and other domestic and international courier services to deliver parcels.
Detailed Seizure Report
During the operation, the NCB seized a total of 15 parcels, including 13 domestic parcels and 2 from the Netherlands. The seized items included:
- 2,338 LSD blotters
- 160 MDMA (Ecstasy) pills, weighing 77.517 grams
- 73.612 grams Charas
- 3.642 grams Amphetamine
- 3.6 kg Liquid MDMA
The estimated international market value of the seized consignment is ₹5 crore. According to NCB officials, this is considered one of the largest actions against dark web-based drug networks in India.
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Gang Operations and Investigation
Investigations revealed that the Team Kalki network contacted customers online, coordinating parcel deliveries according to instructions from the gang. The accused employed digital currencies and covert methods to hide their transactions.
Prof. Triveni Singh, senior cybercrime expert and former IPS officer, commented, “Networks like these use social engineering techniques and covert delivery models like dead drops. Such gangs are not easily caught, which is why continuous intelligence monitoring and digital forensics are essential.”
Further investigation showed that the gang operated not only nationally but also internationally. Consignments from the Netherlands and other European countries were carefully planned and transported to reach customers in India.
Next Steps
NCB officials stated that four other active members of the gang remain at large. Efforts are underway for their arrest through interstate and international cooperation. Detailed forensic and digital data analysis is also ongoing to identify other customers and local network participants.
Experts say that dark web-based drug networks are growing rapidly, and continuous technological surveillance and strict enforcement are key to effectively dismantling them.
This operation is considered a significant achievement for Indian drug control agencies, successfully targeting both the international network and local logistics simultaneously.
About the author – Ayesha Aayat is a law student and contributor covering cybercrime, online frauds, and digital safety concerns. Her writing aims to raise awareness about evolving cyber threats and legal responses.
