2.5 Billion Cocaine Haul: Dubai Kingpin Pawan Thakur Under Agency Radar

• Dubai-based kingpin Pawan Thakur is under investigation by Indian central agencies for a Rs 2,500 crore cocaine haul and a large methamphetamine seizure.
• Thakur is accused of masterminding an international drug and money laundering network, including the 82 kg cocaine intercepted in Delhi in November 2024.
• The Narcotics Control Bureau issued an international Silver Notice against Thakur, while the Enforcement Directorate is probing Rs 681 crore in money laundering.
• Thakur, who started as a 'hawala' operator, allegedly funneled drug profits through cryptocurrency and shell companies across multiple countries.
• He fled to Dubai after the cocaine seizure, where he owns luxury properties, and a Delhi court has issued a non-bailable warrant for his arrest.

Why It Matters: Authorities are targeting a major international drug and money laundering network.