Landmark Action in Narcotics Crackdown
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has launched a groundbreaking international action against a Dubai-based drug trafficker accused of running a multi-crore narcotics empire. In a first for India, the agency has invoked Interpol’s Silver Notice mechanism to target Pawan Thakur, alleged mastermind behind the seizure of nearly 82 kilograms of high-grade cocaine worth about ₹2,500 crore in Delhi in November 2024.
The Silver Notice, a rarely used tool, allows global enforcement agencies to track criminal assets, businesses, and financial networks across borders. The notice has been shared with authorities in the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, Hong Kong, and several European nations, where Thakur is believed to have invested heavily through shell firms and front organizations.
The Man Behind the Cocaine Empire
Investigators describe Thakur as a long-time operator in both the hawala trade and narcotics trafficking. Once a hawala agent in Delhi’s Kucha Mahajani market, he allegedly used his expertise in financial systems to expand into the illicit drug trade.
Evidence from the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and NCB probes points to his role in building a global network of smuggling and money laundering operations. Black money generated from cocaine shipments was routed through hawala, cryptocurrency transfers, and falsified trade documentation. The syndicate allegedly laundered over ₹681 crore through fake import-export papers, crypto wallets, and manipulated financial statements.
Despite repeated summons from the ED, Thakur evaded questioning. Delhi’s Patiala House Court later issued a non-bailable warrant against him. Shortly after the November 2024 cocaine seizure, he fled India with his family and relocated to Dubai, from where he reportedly continues to run his operations.
Properties, Cars, and a Dubai Hills Villa
Sources indicate that Thakur has acquired a lavish lifestyle in Dubai, including multiple luxury vehicles and a villa in the upscale Dubai Hills Estate. His assets allegedly include properties across Dubai and investments in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Europe, concealed through shell companies.
Officials stress that the Silver Notice will allow investigators to not only track his movements but also freeze illicit properties tied to drug revenues.
The November 2024 Seizure
The case that led to the Silver Notice began with a major raid in Delhi’s Nangloi area on November 14, 2024. Acting on intelligence inputs, NCB officers intercepted a consignment of cocaine concealed in cargo shipped from Mexico. Nearly 82 kilograms of high-grade cocaine were recovered from a warehouse, making it one of the largest seizures in India’s history.
The consignment, valued at ₹2,500 crore in the international market, was reportedly intended for re-export to Australia. Five of Thakur’s close associates were arrested in connection with the bust, but Thakur himself managed to escape.
Strengthening Global Cooperation
This step represents a new phase in India’s fight against organized narcotics networks. While Red Corner Notices and Blue Corner Notices have been frequently used against fugitives, this is the first time India has invoked the Silver Notice against a drug trafficker.
Currently, India has 21 active Blue Corner Notices and 10 Red Corner Notices against drug smugglers. The issuance of the Silver Notice against Thakur is being hailed as a landmark in tightening international cooperation.
In 2025 alone, India has successfully deported four traffickers—including Naveen Chichkar and Lijo Josh—through coordinated efforts with foreign governments. Authorities say the action against Thakur signals a more aggressive approach toward dismantling drug cartels operating beyond India’s borders.
A Message to Global Syndicates
Senior NCB officials emphasized that the action sends a strong message to transnational drug syndicates. “This is not just about one trafficker—it is about dismantling the global networks that threaten India’s security and youth,” one official remarked.
As Interpol member states begin tracking Thakur’s investments and properties, the case could serve as a template for future cross-border operations against narcotics kingpins. The focus, authorities say, is not only on arrests but also on crippling the financial backbone of cartels.
With the Silver Notice now active, the hunt for Pawan Thakur has gone truly global.
