Gladness Gideon
A Nigerian national, Frank Chibuzor Nandi, has denied involvement in a drug trafficking case in India, claiming he was framed by anti-narcotics officers who allegedly planted cocaine in his possession during a sting operation.
Nandi, 39, was arrested last Saturday in the Malad area of Mumbai by the Worli unit of the Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC), following a tip-off. Police say he was apprehended while carrying a bag suspected to contain narcotics. A subsequent search reportedly revealed 200 grams of a white powder, which field tests later confirmed to be cocaine.
Authorities have estimated the street value of the seized substance at ₹2 crore, equivalent to approximately ₦360 million. In addition to the drugs, a Honda City vehicle was also confiscated from Nandi at the time of his arrest.
However, during his court appearance, Nandi refuted the allegations, telling the presiding magistrate that the drugs were not his.
“The police simply arrested me, planted the bag on me, took photos and videos, and later said the seizure was drugs. I completely deny this,” he stated, as reported by The Times of India.
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A panchnama—a legal document detailing the seizure—was prepared at the scene. Nandi was brought before a Holiday Court on Sunday, where prosecutors requested extended custody for further investigation. The court permitted Nandi to contact his wife and advised him to secure legal counsel, which he has agreed to do.
Nandi’s arrest comes amid growing scrutiny of foreign nationals involved in narcotics-related offenses in India. Just last week, a large-scale drug trafficking ring was dismantled in Tamil Nadu, resulting in the arrest of 25 individuals, several of whom were Nigerians.
The case has drawn attention from both Indian and Nigerian communities, raising concerns about fair treatment, due process, and the handling of drug-related cases involving foreigners. Nandi remains in custody as investigations continue, with his legal team expected to challenge the prosecution’s claims on the grounds of wrongful arrest and planted evidence.