Police in Mangaluru, India, have arrested a 36-year-old Nigerian national for allegedly resuming drug trafficking activities after being released on bail in a previous narcotics case.
The suspect, identified as Peter Ikedi Belonwu, was apprehended by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) following what authorities described as a targeted intelligence-led operation.
According to police, Belonwu had earlier been arrested in connection with drug trafficking and remanded in judicial custody. However, after securing bail, he allegedly violated the conditions of his release and resumed involvement in the distribution of MDMA.
Investigators allege that the suspect sourced the synthetic drug from Bengaluru and operated a network supplying it to local dealers and students in Mangaluru and neighbouring Kasaragod.
At the time of his arrest, officers reportedly recovered a significant quantity of MDMA and other materials considered relevant to the investigation. Authorities also alleged that the suspect frequently changed locations and used multiple mobile phone numbers in an effort to avoid detection.
Police records indicate that in October 2024, the suspect was arrested in Bengaluru after approximately six kilograms of MDMA, valued at around ₹6 crore, was seized. He had also faced arrest in 2023 in connection with other drug-related cases in the city.
Officials said coordinated inter-city intelligence efforts were instrumental in tracking the suspect’s movements and preventing further distribution.
The latest arrest is part of ongoing enforcement measures aimed at curbing narcotics circulation, particularly among young people. Police have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on repeat offenders and organised drug networks operating across Karnataka.