In a major breakthrough against narcotics operations in the region, the West Siang district police have busted a sophisticated drug trafficking network that used QR codes and digital wallets to facilitate illegal transactions. The operation led to the arrest of the main accused, Dorik Doji, along with seven others, in what officials are calling one of the most tech-savvy drug busts in the region. According to police sources, the syndicate had been running its operations in the districts of West Siang and Pasighat by exploiting digital payment platforms and Customer Service Points (CSPs). The network cleverly masked drug transactions as online gaming payments, making it difficult to trace and raising little suspicion. The investigation began following two narcotics-related cases—registered as FIRs 14/25 and 16/25—at the Aalo Police Station. These cases eventually led authorities to Dorik Doji, a resident of Aalo, who masterminded the network. Police said Doji approached a CSP operator in Pasighat, identified as Talom Mibang, and proposed a deal in December 2024.
Under the arrangement, drug users would transfer money to Mibang via Google Pay and QR codes under the pretense of paying for online games. Mibang would keep a 50% commission initially, with a promise of a 30% cut after six months. Once payment was received, drugs were discreetly dropped off at predetermined locations. Users, often guided through WhatsApp calls, would collect the drugs without any face-to-face interaction with the seller. To avoid detection, Doji frequently changed his mobile numbers and used multiple SIM cards. He also managed the flow of funds through CSP points in both Aalo and Pasighat, occasionally visiting the Pasighat CSP to withdraw cash himself. The police, using digital forensics, bank account data, and mobile surveillance, were able to track down the transaction routes. The first breakthrough came with the arrest of Talom Mibang. His statements and digital footprints helped police trace and arrest Dorik Doji in Aalo soon after.
During the operation, authorities recovered ₹78,000 in cash, a bank account with over ₹2 lakh, several mobile phones, and multiple SIM cards. Further seizures are expected as the investigation progresses. So far, eight people have been arrested in connection with the racket. The operation is being led by Sub-Inspector Lakhi Mena, Officer-in-Charge of Aalo Police Station, under the close supervision of Superintendent of Police, West Siang, Kardak Riba. Police officials have appealed to the public to remain alert and report any suspicious digital or financial activity that could be linked to drug peddling. They have also emphasized the need for increased regulation and monitoring of digital payment services in rural areas.
