Sadiq recruited drivers to run drug cartel overseas: ED

JAFFER Sadiq, the alleged kingpin in the multi-crore drug trafficking case, has actively scouted individuals with international road permits and stationed them in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Dubai, and Malaysia to work as drivers and clandestinely handle his drug trade there, the ED investigation has found.

- SIDDHARTH PRABHAKAR

These resources were part of his well-oiled network through which the expelled DMK functionary operated his international syndicate. The ED had alleged that the accused procured the controlled substance, pseudoephedrine, and exported it by concealing it with desiccated coconut, food items, soda ash and bangles.

ED found that Sadiq tried to send three men, two from Pune and one from Ramanthapuram, from Dubai to Auckland to work as drivers for a monthly salary of 3.5 lakh. These men had fraudulently obtained ID cards of Dubai-based companies and resident visas by paying bribes and falsifying records. They were unable to travel to New Zeland as Dubai airport authorities stopped them due to a defective visa.