254 foreign nationals arrested in Delhi-NCR drug trafficking cases since 2024: Govt

A total of 254 foreign nationals residing in the National Capital Region (NCR) have been arrested in cases related to illegal drug trafficking between 2024 and June 30, 2026, the Centre informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

Responding to an unstarred question by BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said the arrests include foreign nationals, including those of Nigerian origin, apprehended from areas such as Khanpur Extension, Deoli, Sangam Vihar, Mehrauli, Hauz Rani, Uttam Nagar and adjoining parts of west Delhi.

According to the data placed before Parliament, 40 foreign nationals were arrested in 2024, 35 in 2025 and 15 up to June 30 this year in the specified areas. The seizures included heroin, amphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, charas, ganja, methamphetamine, ecstasy and other narcotic substances. The estimated value of the drugs seized was around Rs 12.75 crore in 2024, Rs 14.27 crore in 2025 and Rs 13.50 crore during the first half of 2026.

The minister also informed the House that during the same period, 103 foreign nationals were found residing in rented accommodation without mandatory tenant verification by their landlords. Action has been taken against 63 landlords for violating the verification norms.

Rai said tenant verification, including that of foreign nationals living in Delhi, is a continuous process undertaken by Delhi Police to maintain security and law and order in the national capital.