The narcotics trade in the State capital is witnessing a significant shift in its operational pattern, with a surge in the involvement of women in what was previously a male-dominated illegal enterprise. A startling disclosure by the Bhopal Crime Branch reveals that between 2021 and 2026, over 44 women and young girls were apprehended for their involvement in drug trafficking. Investigations have confirmed that this network is not confined to the city limits but has deep-rooted connections extending to Bihar, Delhi, and several other districts across Madhya Pradesh. According to the official records of the Crime Branch, the arrested female operatives span a wide age group, ranging from 20 to 60 years. The profile of these accused varies significantly; while some were previously engaged in domestic work or small businesses, others entered the trade due to financial greed or external pressure. In several instances, entire families were found to be complicit in the illegal trade.

 

Authorities noted that even college students have been lured into becoming ‘peddlers’ to sustain personal addictions or lead a lavish lifestyle. The investigation highlights a concerning trend of recidivism among female traffickers. Many accused women returned to the narcotics trade shortly after being released on bail, effectively deep-rooted connections extending to Bihar, Delhi, and several other districts across Madhya Pradesh. According to the official records of the Crime Branch, the arrested female operatives span a wide age group, ranging from 20 to 60 years. The profile of these accused varies significantly; while some were previously engaged in domestic work or small businesses, others entered the trade due to financial greed or external pressure. In several instances, entire families were found to be complicit in the illegal trade. Authorities noted that even college students have been lured into becoming ‘peddlers’ to sustain personal addictions or lead a lavish lifestyle.

 

The investigation highlights a concerning trend of recidivism among female traffickers. Many accused women returned to the narcotics trade shortly after being released on bail, effectively turning the illegal activity into a full-time profession. These operatives primarily facilitate the supply of cannabis (ganja), smack, and charas across the city. Despite being booked under the stringent Section 8/20 of the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act, which carries severe penalties, the lure of quick money continues to drive their involvement in organised syndicates. Crime Branch officials have identified specific sensitive zones in the city where female traffickers are most active, including Nishatpura, Talaiya, Gandhi Nagar, Kohefiza, Chhola Mandir, and Ashoka Garden.

 

The use of female operatives has increased strategically because they often attract less suspicion from law enforcement during transit. Case studies reveal diverse backgrounds: 48-year-old Juba Bi from Indore turned to drugs in Bhopal to escape poverty in 2022, while 40-year-old Sharda Devi from Bihar was caught in 2023 smuggling cannabis to assist her husband. Additionally, 25-year-old Rajni Singh from Misrod became a peddler in 2024 after falling into a cycle of addiction. The cumulative data from recent operations shows that 36 cases were registered involving the seizure of 38.8 kilograms of cannabis, while 8 cases resulted in the recovery of 2.3 kilograms of smack. Shailendra Singh Chauhan, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), emphasised that no individual, regardless of gender, will be spared in the ongoing war against drugs. The Crime Branch is now focusing its efforts on neutralising the primary kingpins who operate behind these women, aiming to dismantle the entire inter-state supply chain.