Kerala’s fight against drug inflows faces a growing challenge, with Bengaluru emerging as the key supplier of synthetic drugs, particularly MDMA. Investigations reveal that most peddlers arrested in Kerala source their drugs from Bengaluru, where production is allegedly controlled by Nigerian nationals with expertise in drug manufacturing. Many of these individuals entered India on student visas but continue operating illegally after expiration.

The production network procures raw materials via online transactions and dark web dealings, often using cryptocurrency. While MDMA costs less than ₹1,000 per gram in Bengaluru, the price doubles or triples upon reaching Kerala, fueling a highly lucrative trade.

Despite thousands of drug-related arrests annually, law enforcement in Kerala struggles to crack down on key suppliers, with only a few drug lab operators being caught. Meanwhile, ganja continues to enter the state from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha, though stricter surveillance has slowed its inflow.

With synthetic drug trafficking on the rise, authorities face mounting pressure to dismantle Bengaluru’s MDMA distribution network and curb its spread across South India.