Operation WIPE

Why in the News?

The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has launched “Operation WIPE” (Web-based Illicit Activities Prevention & Enforcement) to curb the growing misuse of online platforms for the illegal sale and distribution of drugs regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.

• Notices have been issued to multiple online platforms, directing them to take immediate corrective measures.

Key Facts

• Objective: Target illegal online trade of pharmaceutical and psychotropic substances.
• Scope of detection:
  • 122 instances of illegal online activity identified.
  • 62 substances involved.
• Legal classification:
  • 58 substances fall under the NDPS Act.
  • 4 substances are categorized as controlled substances.
• Commonly abused drugs detected:
  • Clonazepam
  • Diazepam
  • Fentanyl

Background

• The operation builds on earlier enforcement actions, especially “Operation MED-MAX” (July 2025).
• Under MED-MAX:
  • A transnational drug trafficking syndicate was dismantled.
  • The network operated across multiple continents with international coordination.
  • The case originated from the seizure of 3.7 kg of Tramadol tablets in India.
  • Investigations revealed increasing use of digital platforms and online marketplaces for illicit drug trade.

Source: TH