By Peace Erewunmi

A 27-year-old Nigerian, Obase Prosper, has been arrested in New Delhi, India, after security operatives allegedly recovered 5.085 kilograms of methamphetamine valued at more than ₦1.4 billion during a joint operation by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) and the Delhi Zonal Unit of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

According to Indian authorities, Prosper entered the country on a medical visa in 2023 but allegedly remained in India after the visa expired. Investigators also accused him of being a key member of an international criminal syndicate involved in cyber fraud and online romance scams targeting Indian citizens.

Police alleged that members of the syndicate created fake profiles on social media platforms, posing as citizens of the United States and the United Kingdom to lure victims into online relationships. Victims were reportedly deceived into paying large sums of money under the guise of customs duties, taxes and clearance fees for fictitious gifts and parcels.

The investigation began after a resident of Lucknow reported losing millions of rupees to a woman using a fake online identity. Authorities said the case eventually led investigators to Prosper, who was also suspected of involvement in drug trafficking. During the operation, officers recovered the methamphetamine, five mobile phones and two passports.

Indian authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the alleged syndicate, trace financial transactions and dismantle the wider criminal network. Prosper is expected to face charges relating to drug trafficking, cyber fraud and immigration offences under Indian law.