Panaji, February 10: 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 seized drugs is approximately ₹1,589,700.
A case has been registered under Section 21(b), 25 R/W 29 of the NDPS Act 1985 at Crime Branch Police Station, with the crime number 07/2026. 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 the Gautam Hotel Road, heading towards Goa Paradise Colony, close to electricity pole number LT062479/5 in the Pillarnem Mara, Bardez area.
During the operation, the suspect, Omorigo Friday (42 years old, Nigerian citizen), was apprehended. He was found in possession of a white crystal powder, suspected to be cocaine. A total of 31.794 grams of the drug was confiscated, along with a Yamaha Fascino scooter (number GA-03-AU-6318), which was seized under the search and seizure memorandum.
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 years old, resident of House No. 77, Barrosvada, Sangolda, North Goa-403511), who 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. There has been an increase in the smuggling of cocaine and other narcotics through foreign nationals around tourist spots in Goa, prompting the police to conduct ongoing operations against such activities. 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 of the Crime Branch. Authorities are intensively probing the suspect’s network, the drug supply chain, other potential suspects, and trafficking routes. SP Crime Rahul Gupta confirmed the operation, stating that a zero-tolerance policy is being implemented to make Goa drug-free.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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