January 30, 2025: A joint police operation has led to the arrest of 16 individuals, including a key drug kingpin and his associates, after uncovering a vast online network operating across North India, with a particular focus on Himachal Pradesh's capital, Shimla. The arrested individuals were involved in trafficking and distributing chitta (adulterated heroin) through an innovative online booking system that exploited social media platforms.

Shimla's Superintendent of Police (SP), Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, revealed that the syndicate was an organized supply chain that relied heavily on misusing the accounts of innocent individuals. The drugs were being sent through couriers, with deliveries made close to the customer's location without direct interaction.

The operation was exposed following the arrest of Sandeep Shah, an interstate drug kingpin from Kolkata, earlier this month. Shah, who ran the network, procured drug orders through virtual numbers and social media platforms, primarily WhatsApp. Payments for the drugs were processed through Unified Payment Interface (UPI), using the accounts of unsuspecting individuals, and the drugs were delivered covertly near the client's home.

Shah's associate, Neeraj Kashyap, a resident of Mehrauli, South Delhi, was also arrested. Police further revealed that a staggering 500 people were believed to be involved in this drug operation. The transactions were completed after confirming the client's location through photographs and other details, and the delivery was made without any face-to-face contact.

Police officials explained that a consumable quantity of heroin is around 5 grams, while a commercial quantity is 250 grams. To avoid detection, the drugs are often transported in small quantities, which are bailable under the law. However, the high cost of chitta (₹4,000-₹6,000 per gram) makes it unaffordable for users once they become addicted, prompting them to recruit others into the trade.

SP Gandhi emphasized that the focus of the investigation was to break the demand cycle by targeting drug peddlers and dismantling their network. As of now, 16 arrests have been made, including Shah, his associate, and a police constable allegedly involved in the syndicate.

The accused face charges under Sections 21 (Punishment for contravention in relation to manufactured drugs and preparations), 29 (Abetment) of the NDPS Act, and Section 11 of the BNS (Organized Crime) Act.

This breakthrough highlights the growing concern over the role of digital platforms in facilitating illegal activities and the increasing need for robust online monitoring and regulation.