Hidden ‘queenpins’: The rise of Mumbai’s female drug bosses

A city known for glamour, glitter, and dreams is silently being consumed by the dark underbelly of the drug trade.

- Poonam Apraj

The most shocking revelation in recent years has been the rise of the “Lady Drug Mafia”, a network of women emerging as masterminds behind major narcotics operations in the city.

Police investigations have revealed that the drug trade is no longer dominated by male criminals alone. Women now operate as key players, handling finances, supply chains, courier networks, and high-level communication for drug syndicates. While male mafia leaders remain hidden, these women are pushed forward as the face of the operation to evade police suspicion.

Drug syndicates deliberately use women because society and police tend to be less suspicious of them. Housewives, high-profile women, models, bar dancers, and social media influencers serve as carriers and distributors. Airports, railway stations, and hotels have become key nodes for drug delivery.