Panaji, February 9: Goa’s Crime Branch has made a significant drug bust, seizing 31.794 grams of suspected cocaine under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Two individuals have been arrested, including a Nigerian national. The estimated street value of the drugs is approximately ₹1,589,700.
A case has been registered under Crime Number 07/2026, in accordance with Section 21(b) and 25 R/W 29 of the NDPS Act of 1985. Based on a complaint filed by Police Inspector Mahesh Gadekar, a narcotics raid was conducted on February 6, 2026, between 1:10 PM and 4:10 PM near Pillar No. LT062479/5, on the road leading to Goa Paradise Colony in the Bardez area.
During the operation, 42-year-old Omorigo Friday, a Nigerian citizen, was apprehended. Authorities found white crystal powder in his possession, suspected to be cocaine. A total of 31.794 grams of the drug was confiscated, along with a Yamaha Fascino scooter (registration number GA-03-AU-6318), which was seized under the search and seizure protocol.
Omorigo Friday was formally arrested at 11:20 AM on February 6, 2026, and is currently in police custody. Further investigation revealed the involvement of Sudhir son of Gurudas Paleikar, 42, a resident of House No. 77, Barosvada, Sangolda, North Goa-403511. Sudhir was arrested on February 8, 2026, at 6:50 PM and is also in police custody.
According to the Crime Branch, this case may be linked to an international drug trafficking network. The smuggling of cocaine and other narcotics through foreign nationals around tourist spots in Goa has been on the rise, prompting ongoing police operations. Given the quantity of cocaine seized and its market value, this is considered one of the largest drug recoveries in Goa in recent years.
The investigation is being led by Police Inspector Mahesh Gadekar. Authorities are intensively probing the accused’s network, the drug supply chain, other suspects, and trafficking routes. SP Crime Rahul Gupta confirmed the operation, stating that a zero-tolerance policy is being enforced to make Goa drug-free.