The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) has carried out a major operation against an inter-state drug trafficking network, recovering 18.64 kg of crude heroin during coordinated operations in Uttar Pradesh.
The operation, named ‘Operation Black Hawk’, was conducted by teams of the CBN Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh units based on intelligence inputs regarding the movement of narcotics from the North-East region towards Lucknow. According to the CBN, three alleged members of the trafficking network have been arrested and booked under provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
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Agency: Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN)
Operation: Black Hawk
Recovery: 18.64 kg crude heroin
Locations: Lucknow and Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh
Law Applied: NDPS Act, 1985 Units Involved: CBN MP and UP Units
Heroin Hidden Inside Modified Fuel Tank
Acting on intelligence inputs, joint teams established surveillance along the Sultanpur–Lucknow Highway during the intervening night of August 20–21, 2026. After tracking the movement through multiple toll plazas, officers intercepted an Assam-registered Hyundai Creta near Lucknow on August 21.
During questioning, officials reportedly became suspicious after noticing unusual travel details, including multiple refuelling stops over a short distance. A physical inspection of the vehicle’s fuel tank revealed an unusual hollow structure. Further examination at the CBN office in Lucknow exposed a specially designed hidden compartment containing 25 waterproof packages carrying 16.46 kg of crude heroin.
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Why This Matters
Drug trafficking networks often operate across multiple states using hidden transportation methods to avoid detection. The recovery highlights the role of intelligence-based operations and coordinated enforcement efforts in disrupting organised narcotics supply chains.
Two suspects linked to the vehicle were arrested.
Second Operation Leads to More Recovery
In another operation based on intelligence developed by the CBN Uttar Pradesh Unit, officials tracked a heavy truck suspected of carrying narcotics along the Siliguri–Lucknow corridor.
The vehicle was intercepted near Barabanki, where a search revealed 2.16 kg of crude heroin hidden inside a specially constructed chamber within the vehicle’s body frame.
One more suspect was arrested in connection with the recovery.
Financial Investigation Underway
CBN officials said further investigations are underway to identify the larger network involved in the supply chain. The agency is examining possible links with upstream suppliers in the North-East and downstream distribution channels involved in the movement of narcotics. Both vehicles and the seized consignment have been confiscated as part of the investigation.
