NCB files chargesheet in alleged darknet-based drug trafficking case

Key Points

1. NCB filed a chargesheet in Ernakulam District Sessions Court on December 29, 2025, regarding a darknet drug trafficking case.
2. Operation MELON dismantled the 'Ketamelon' drug syndicate, seizing 1,127 LSD blots and 131.66 g of Ketamine.
3. Two accused, Edison Babu and Arun Thomas, were arrested; two more, Sandeep Sajeev and Harikrishnan Aji Nawas, are implicated.
4. Sandeep Sajeev, residing in the UK, allegedly repackaged and sent drugs back to India.
5. Harikrishnan Aji Nawas, traced to Australia, allegedly converted cryptocurrency for Edison.
6. Assets worth over ₹3 crore belonging to Edison Babu have been seized, including a shopping complex and cryptocurrency.
7. The investigation involved digital forensics, IP details, and international cooperation through MLAT.
8. 'Ketamelon' was identified as India’s only Level 4 darknet vendor, operating for two years.
9. The drugs were primarily sourced from a U.K.-based vendor, GungaDin, linked to Dr. Seuss, a major LSD supplier.
10. 'Ketamelon' reportedly shipped around 1200 consignments to major Indian cities.