NCB Busts Pan-India Darknet Drug Network “Team Kalki”

Narcotics Control Bureau Dismantles Online Drug Trafficking Network Using Darknet

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has dismantled a large pan-India drug trafficking network operating under the name “Team Kalki.” The syndicate allegedly distributed narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances across multiple Indian cities using darknet marketplaces and encrypted communication platforms. The crackdown was executed in New Delhi following nearly three months of intelligence gathering, marking a major step in tackling cyber-enabled drug trafficking in the country.

Darknet-Based Drug Distribution

Investigations revealed that the network had been active since January 2025 , conducting anonymous drug sales through darknet platforms. The traffickers relied on encrypted communication channels, particularly the messaging application Session, to coordinate orders, manage payments, and arrange deliveries.

Darknet networks operate through specialised software such as Tor, which masks users’ identities and locations. This anonymity makes such platforms increasingly attractive to organised criminal groups involved in cross-border drug trafficking.

Interception of Drug Parcels

During the operation, NCB officials intercepted several consignments linked to the network. Authorities seized narcotic substances from 13 domestic parcels and two international shipments that originated from the Netherlands.

Investigators believe the traffickers used postal and courier services to discreetly distribute drugs across various Indian cities, allowing the syndicate to maintain a wide distribution network while avoiding direct contact between suppliers and buyers.

Cryptocurrency and Digital Transactions

Electronic devices recovered from suspects provided further insights into the operation. Investigators identified a cryptocurrency wallet suspected to be connected to the trafficking activities. The use of digital currencies allowed the group to process payments with a higher level of anonymity, making financial tracking more difficult for law enforcement agencies.

This case illustrates a growing trend where traffickers combine darknet marketplaces, encrypted messaging services, and cryptocurrencies to run covert and technologically sophisticated drug distribution networks.

Ongoing Investigation

Preliminary findings suggest that the “Team Kalki” network may have shipped over 1,000 drug consignments across India since early 2025. Authorities are currently conducting forensic analysis of seized electronic devices and financial data to identify additional collaborators and trace potential international links.

The operation highlights the increasing challenges faced by enforcement agencies in combating technology-driven narcotics trafficking .

Exam-Focused Points

• Narcotics Control Bureau operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs .

• Darknet refers to encrypted online networks accessed through tools like Tor.

• Drug traffickers often use cryptocurrencies to conduct anonymous financial transactions.

• The encrypted messaging app Session was used by the network to coordinate activities.

• Two intercepted drug consignments originated from the Netherlands.

• The network reportedly distributed over 1,000 drug parcels across India since January 2025 .