Indian Drug Trafficker Mohammed Salim Dola Extradited from Turkey
Successful Extradition of Drug Trafficker
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has successfully repatriated wanted drug trafficker Mohammed Salim Dola from Turkey, collaborating with international and Indian intelligence agencies under 'Operation Global-Hunt'.
Upon his arrival at IGI Airport in New Delhi this morning, the NCB took him into custody. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), "Salim Dola, a 59-year-old resident of Mumbai, was the subject of an INTERPOL red notice issued at India's request in March 2024. He was wanted for prosecution in several drug trafficking cases in India and had been evading Indian law enforcement agencies. Over the past few years, Dola has established a significant international drug trafficking syndicate spanning the Middle East, Africa, and various European countries. His extensive criminal history includes direct involvement in cases related to the seizure of large quantities of heroin, charas, mephedrone, mandrex, and methamphetamine in Maharashtra and Gujarat over two decades."
Dola's Role in Drug Distribution
Dola has emerged as a key wholesale supplier for lower-level distribution networks in India. Additionally, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Mumbai police are also on the lookout for him. Previously, his son Tahil Salim Dola and other associates were arrested by Mumbai police following their extradition from the UAE in 2025. The MHA noted that this operation exemplifies the close cooperation and coordinated action between Turkey, INTERPOL, and Indian agencies.
Details of the Extradition
Earlier today, Salim Dola was extradited from Istanbul to Delhi Technical Airport. This transfer followed an operation conducted by intelligence agencies in collaboration with international partners. Currently, intelligence agencies are interrogating him. Dola will be handed over to the Mumbai police, after which various agencies will conduct further questioning.
Arrest in Turkey
As reported by CNN Turkey, Dola, a notorious Indian drug lord with an INTERPOL red notice against him, was apprehended by Turkish authorities following a significant operation in Istanbul. He was arrested on April 25 when the Istanbul police's narcotics division launched a special operation to capture him. Dola, who was wanted in connection with drug trafficking, was found hiding in a house in the Beylikdüzü district. During raids conducted in India, authorities seized approximately 126 kilograms of mephedrone along with ₹25,22,000. The Istanbul police department has since completed all necessary formalities for this high-profile suspect.