A 0.6-gram seizure of MDMA in Kannur has led police to an alleged drug network operating from Delhi, resulting in the arrest of two foreign nationals from Burari.

The accused have been identified as 36-year-old Nigerian national Chinelo Lilian Okorie, also known as Santa, and 30-year-old Cameroonian national Philomene Chanceline. Police allege that the two were involved in manufacturing and supplying MDMA.

Investigation Started With Just 0.6g of MDMA

The investigation began in July when police allegedly caught a street-level seller with 0.6 grams of MDMA at New Mahe near Thalassery. During questioning, investigators were led to another suspect, Muhammed Sameel. A subsequent search of his house and vehicle reportedly resulted in the seizure of 185 grams of MDMA.

Trail Leads From Kerala to Delhi

Police then examined phone records and financial transactions and allegedly traced the network to an intermediary known as Mujithaba alias Tabu.

According to investigators, the drugs were being moved from Delhi to Kerala through parcels and intermediaries. Police also arrested other alleged members of the network during the investigation. In a related operation, Haryana Police reportedly seized 800 grams of MDMA from a suspect in Gurugram.

Dry-Fruit Shop Allegedly Used as Cover

The investigation eventually led Kannur Police to Burari in Delhi, where the two women were arrested after a police team spent around 10 days tracing them.

Police allege that the women had been running a small dry-fruit shop in the area for about a year while allegedly operating their drug activities from there. Investigators allege that Chanceline was involved in manufacturing MDMA, while Lilian handled logistics and distribution.

Police Trace Financial Network

Investigators said the suspects allegedly used multiple SIM cards and around 20 bank accounts for transactions linked to the network. Police have reportedly frozen several accounts and seized cash and documents during the investigation.

Authorities also allege that some members of the network arranged fake documents, SIM cards and bank accounts.

Investigation Continues

Police have so far reported recovering nearly 1 kilogram of MDMA in connection with the wider investigation. Officials said the probe is continuing, with investigators looking for other people allegedly involved in the network. Police have also indicated that the two arrested women may not represent the highest level of the operation.