Salim Ismailbhai Dola, an alleged Indian narcotics kingpin with links to international drug trafficking networks, has been arrested in Istanbul and deported to India in a coordinated operation involving Turkish authorities and Indian agencies.
Dola, a Mumbai resident, was an absconding in multiple narcotics cases registered by central agencies in India. He had fled the country in 2020, initially relocating to Dubai before moving to Turkiye in 2024. His deportation on April 28, 2026, is being seen as a significant breakthrough in India’s efforts to dismantle transnational drug syndicates.
According to officials, Dola was closely associated with Iqbal Mirchi, a known aide of underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim. He was also a prime accused in a major 2018 fentanyl seizure case in Mumbai involving narcotics worth approximately 1000 crore rupees, reportedly intended for trafficking to Mexico.
Despite being arrested multiple times in the past, Dola had managed to secure bail or acquittal in several cases. After fleeing India, he is believed to have continued operating his drug network from abroad, allegedly using close family members to manage operations.
A Red Corner Notice had been issued against him by Interpol at the request of Indian authorities. Following this, Indian agencies coordinated with their Turkish counterparts, sharing intelligence and pursuing extradition through diplomatic channels.
Dola had reportedly entered Turkiye via Istanbul in early 2024 and was attempting to obtain Turkish citizenship through an investment programme. However, the issuance of the Interpol notice and subsequent information sharing by India led Turkish authorities to halt the process and detain him, eventually leading to his deportation.
Officials highlighted that the case reflects continued cooperation between India and Turkiye on counterterrorism and transnational crime, despite broader geopolitical complexities. Turkish authorities have previously assisted in deporting individuals linked to extremist and criminal networks, including Indian nationals.
Dola is currently being questioned by Indian intelligence agencies and is expected to be handed over to Mumbai Police for further investigation. His arrest is likely to provide key insights into the functioning of international drug trafficking networks linked to India.
