A Nigerian woman has been arrested in India for her role in a transnational cocaine network. Her arrest brings the total suspects nabbed to 25 since January

Nigerian woman arrested in India has become the latest development in an ongoing international drug trafficking investigation that has so far resulted in the apprehension of 25 individuals across Tamil Nadu.

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Sarah Kumama, 41, who also operated under the aliases “Happiness” and “Blessings,” was arrested on Thursday in Bengaluru by a special investigation team.

Authorities have identified her as a key figure in a transnational cocaine distribution network with reach across Bengaluru, Chennai, and Mumbai.

According to The Times of India, Kumama’s arrest follows a months-long crackdown that began on 25 January with the arrest of two suspects, Fayaz Ahmed and S. Chandrasekar, in Royapettah and Koyambedu respectively.

The duo were caught with cocaine in a joint operation by the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit and Choolaimedu police.

Further investigation revealed that Fayaz Ahmed, 31, was already facing trial in a murder case. By March, the trail led authorities to arrest two more Nigerian nationals—Eko Nathanial Chibuzor from Mumbai and Ebere Moses Obogodo from Bengaluru. Nathanial was identified as a major supplier to drug dealers operating in Chennai.

The network’s reach reportedly extended into the nightlife scene, with police arresting DJ Julian Dishan, 33, and bar manager M. Arunraj, 29, who were allegedly distributing cocaine at a popular Nungambakkam venue.

Authorities also confirmed that four individuals under the age of 21 were among those apprehended in connection to the case.

“With Sarah’s arrest, we have apprehended 25 people involved in this network. Efforts are on to trace more links in the supply chain,” a senior investigating officer said.

Items recovered during the sweep include 65 grams of cocaine, 1.7 kg of ganja, two grams of ganja oil, four grams of OG ganja, 20 mobile phones, three motorcycles, three cars, and two weighing machines.

Indian authorities say they are intensifying efforts to dismantle the remainder of the network and trace its international connections. Sarah Kumama remains in custody as investigations continue into the full extent of her role within the cartel.