Post by : Badri Ariffin

In a significant enforcement operation, the Hyderabad police have deported a Nigerian national who had illegally resided in India for more than ten years. This action, led by the Hyderabad Narcotic Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) in collaboration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), highlights the authorities’ focus on eliminating unlawful foreign presence and associated criminal activities.

Identified as Johnkennedy Chukwuemeka Okoro from Imo State, Nigeria, the 43-year-old entered India in 2012 on a business visa. Over the years, he moved around various cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. Police reports indicate that his passport and visa had expired long ago. Okoro reportedly used several aliases such as ‘Hopy Cup’ and ‘Jeksa’ to embed himself within local networks that may be connected to drug trafficking, reaping what authorities refer to as “easy income.”

Based on actionable intelligence, H-NEW detained Okoro in the Asif Nagar vicinity of Hyderabad. While no drugs were recovered at the time of his arrest, authorities noted his extensive illegal residency and presumed criminal connections posed a significant risk to public safety. After confirming his identity and obtaining necessary travel documents, he was sent back to Nigeria.

Established to tackle drug-related offenses and substance misuse in Hyderabad, the H-NEW has been diligently monitoring expired visa holders who might be involved in illicit distribution networks. Since its inception, the unit has deported over twenty foreign nationals due to illegal stays and criminal activity, with numerous cases recorded this year alone.

Officials emphasized the role of the community in upholding safety standards in the city. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or information related to drug misuse and undocumented foreign individuals. Parents should also keep an eye on their children's social circles to avoid potential exposure to narcotics.

This incident underscores an ongoing challenge faced by Telangana authorities in balancing effective law enforcement with oversight of long-term foreign residents who could take advantage of legal loopholes for illicit purposes.

#world news #Global News