Nigerian Alleges Frame-Up After N360m Cocaine Arrest in Mumbai

Mumbai, India – A 39-year-old Nigerian national, Frank Chibuzor Nandi, has vehemently denied charges of cocaine possession, alleging in an Indian court that anti-narcotics officers planted the illicit substance on him. Nandi was arrested last Saturday by the Worli unit of Mumbai’s Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) in the Malad area, after officers claimed to have seized 200 grams of cocaine with an estimated street value of Rs 2 crores (approximately N360 million).

According to reports from the Times of India, police acted on a specific tip-off, setting a trap near PJ Colony, Orlem Marve Road in Malad. Nandi was intercepted while reportedly carrying a bag. Upon searching the bag, officers stated they recovered a white powder, which a field drug test later confirmed to be cocaine. Police also impounded a Honda City car from Nandi’s possession as part of the operation.

However, during his appearance before the Holiday Court on Sunday, Nandi strongly refuted the police’s claims. When asked if he had any complaints, he stated in open court, “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.”

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While the police are seeking custody for further investigation into the alleged drug peddling network, the court advised Nandi to secure legal representation. Nandi, however, requested to speak with his wife before appointing counsel, a request the magistrate granted, directing police to facilitate the call.

Frank Chibuzor Nandi remains in custody as investigations continue into the allegations and his claims of being falsely implicated. The case highlights ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to combat drug trafficking, with several past instances of Nigerian nationals being arrested on similar charges in the region.