Salim Dola, a known associate of Dawood Ibrahim, has been deported to India following an international operation involving multiple intelligence agencies.
He arrived in New Delhi on a special aircraft and is currently under interrogation by Indian authorities.
Officials confirmed that Dola will soon be handed over to the Mumbai Police for further questioning in connection with a large-scale narcotics investigation.
Arrest in Turkey and International Coordination
Dola was detained in Istanbul during a joint operation conducted by Turkey’s National Intelligence Organisation and local law enforcement agencies. The arrest was executed based on an Interpol Red Corner Notice issued at the request of Indian authorities.
Despite the absence of a formal extradition treaty between India and Turkey, officials coordinated through international channels to secure his deportation. Reports suggest that his links to the United Arab Emirates also played a role in facilitating the process.
Role in India’s Drug Network
Investigators have identified Dola as a key figure in one of India’s largest synthetic drug manufacturing and distribution networks. The case is currently being probed by the Mumbai Police Crime Branch.
Authorities believe that Dola managed and operated the drug cartel from overseas after fleeing India in 2018. His arrest is expected to provide crucial insights into the functioning of international narcotics networks connected to India.
Criminal Background and Escape from India
Born in Mumbai, Dola reportedly began his criminal activities by supplying gutkha before expanding into marijuana and synthetic drugs. He was arrested multiple times in India before securing bail in 2018.
After his release, he allegedly fled to the UAE using forged documents and later shifted operations to Turkey, where he continued managing his illegal network until his recent detention.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Indian intelligence agencies are currently interrogating Dola to uncover deeper links within the drug syndicate. Officials have indicated that his custodial questioning could reveal critical information about international trafficking routes and financial networks.
Once preliminary interrogation concludes, Dola is expected to be transferred to Mumbai, where further legal proceedings and investigation will take place.
