New York, February 7: In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the United States has launched a major operation against a network of online drug traffickers linked to India. According to U.S. officials, this network is believed to be responsible for six overdose deaths in the country.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reported that it has arrested four individuals under “Operation Meltdown” and seized 200 websites associated with a transnational criminal organization (TCO) based in India.
The DEA stated it is actively collaborating with Indian law enforcement agencies to identify, investigate, and dismantle dangerous criminal organizations involved in illegal drug trafficking, leveraging its global reach.
In announcing this operation, DEA Administrator Terence Cole emphasized, “This case illustrates how foreign traffickers exploit our healthcare system, hiding behind the internet and using legitimate businesses as a cover to supply dangerous drugs within the U.S.”
According to the DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, the seized websites appeared to be legitimate online pharmacies but were illegally selling drugs.
The DEA has identified thousands of customers from these online pharmacies and has sent over 20,000 letters to gather information in support of the investigation. The identity of the involved TCO has not been disclosed, but it has been under investigation by the DEA’s Colorado field office since 2022.
Following this, the DEA field offices across the U.S. conducted multiple raids starting January 27, resulting in four arrests. The agency also issued five Immediate Suspension Orders (ISOs) and one Order to Show Cause (OTSC) against certain “pharmacies” that may have had some form of DEA registration.
According to the DEA, the shut-down online pharmacies had U.S. web addresses and professional designs to appear legitimate. However, the counterfeit drugs sold through these sites often contained fentanyl or methamphetamine, posing severe health risks, harmful side effects, and even death.
The investigation revealed that these online pharmacies and their associates were illegally supplying and shipping drugs without valid prescriptions, violating the Controlled Substances Act. The DEA noted that traffickers were infiltrating the closed distribution system designed to ensure patient safety through doctor prescriptions.
Former President Donald Trump has made the fight against illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl, a top priority. According to the U.S. government, 73,000 people died from drug overdoses in the 12 months ending in August.
Trump has warned China, a primary source of chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl, of tariffs and other punitive measures. He also cited the alleged role of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in drug trafficking as a significant reason for his removal.
The U.S. has targeted vessels allegedly carrying drugs and warned of actions against countries like Colombia and Mexico. However, India has not been singled out, as its cooperation in the fight against drugs and its limited role as a source of drug trafficking in the global landscape are considered crucial factors.
