International anti-drug operation hailed as model for cross-border crime-fighting by global watchdog
A major joint investigation by Indian and US authorities into a $150 million international drug trafficking network has been recognized by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) as a model case of cross-border cooperation. The syndicate, operated by two brothers from Haldwani, Uttarakhand, used darknet platforms and cryptocurrency to run a global narcotics operation.
The case was featured in FATF’s newly released “Handbook on International Cooperation Against Money Laundering”, as an example of best practices in tackling financial crimes with international links.
The Case: Darknet Drug Syndicate Run by Indian Nationals
The FATF highlighted the case—without naming the accused—as involving “Mr B and Mr P,” referring to Banmeet Singh and Parvinder Singh, who operated the Singh Drug Trafficking Organisation on darknet marketplaces.
Key Details:
- Operations base: Haldwani, Uttarakhand
- Darknet platforms used: Silk Road, AlphaBay, Hansa
- Cryptocurrency transactions: Over 8,500 Bitcoins, worth $150 million at the time
- Global reach: US, UK, Ireland, Canada, Jamaica, Scotland, and the US Virgin Islands
- Alias used: “Liston” on darknet markets
How the Operation Worked
From 2012 to 2017, Banmeet Singh ran over eight drug distribution cells across the United States, shipping narcotics ordered via darknet platforms and receiving payments in cryptocurrency. The syndicate was highly structured and used encrypted communication to coordinate international drug shipments.
Arrests, Extradition, and Confession
- Banmeet Singh was arrested in London in 2019 and extradited to the US in 2023.
- Parvinder Singh was arrested in India in 2022.
- In January 2024, Banmeet Singh confessed to the charges and was subsequently brought back to India.
FATF Applauds India-US Coordination
The FATF emphasized the real-time intelligence sharing and physical collaboration between the US and Indian authorities. The US even deployed officials to India during key phases of the investigation.
“This case is a strong example of real-time, cross-border coordination… US officials assisted directly in the investigation, including interviews of the accused,” the FATF stated.
Indian Reforms Also Recognized
The watchdog also praised India’s growing infrastructure for international cooperation:
- Online Mutual Legal Assistance (MLA) Portal launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs
- New MLA guidelines for structured cross-border investigation protocols
“These guidelines provide a clear and structured framework for managing MLA requests, marking a significant step in India’s international cooperation efforts,” said FATF.
ATF’s Recommendations for Global Action
In its handbook, the FATF urges:
- Rapid information sharing through both formal and informal channels
- Greater use of real-time coordination to disrupt cross-border criminal networks
- Enhanced cooperation in areas like money laundering, terror financing, and drug trafficking
Key Takeaways
- Two brothers from Uttarakhand ran a darknet-based drug empire using cryptocurrency.
- The network operated across multiple countries and generated millions in illegal revenue.
- The ED and US authorities jointly cracked the case with strong international collaboration.
- The FATF praised the case as a benchmark for cross-border crime-fighting efforts.
- India’s online MLA system and cooperation guidelines were also recognized for streamlining global investigations.
The successful India-US joint operation against this massive darknet drug syndicate showcases the power of international cooperation in tackling complex cross-border crimes. Praised globally for its real-time coordination and use of advanced legal tools, this case sets a strong example for future efforts against drug trafficking and money laundering. As both nations deepen their collaboration, such partnerships will be crucial in ensuring safer, more secure borders and financial systems worldwide.
