Faceless suppliers, digital transactions pose tougher challenges for police in dismantling drug syndicates

While street-level drug peddlers and organised syndicates have existed for decades, the rise of social media and digital payment systems has pushed the Delhi police to diversify their strategy in fighting drug trafficking.

According to police officers, their biggest challenge is tracking suppliers operating online. “This is both a boon and a bane for us because, on the one hand, the criminal no longer has a face but leaves a digital footprint which can be tracked,” said Abhishek Dhania, Additional Commissioner of Police, Crime and Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF).