New Delhi, January 30, 2024 – In a significant development, the Delhi High Court has denied the bail application of Prajwal Elroy Raj, accused in a high-profile drug trafficking case. The ruling, delivered by Hon’ble Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma, underscores the seriousness of the charges and the ongoing investigation into a complex drug syndicate operating through the dark web and cryptocurrency platforms.
Case Background
The case, registered under FIR no. 255/2022 at the Police Station Crime Branch, Delhi, involves multiple accused and substantial quantities of narcotics. On November 3, 2022, based on a tip-off, Delhi Police conducted a raid at Sarojini Nagar market, resulting in the arrest of Jatin Wasan and Vinay with 250 grams and 150 grams of charas respectively. Subsequent investigations led to the apprehension of Anurag Thakur, Akash Gupta, and Nihar Bakshi with additional quantities of charas, ecstasy pills, and MDMA.
Role of Prajwal Elroy Raj
The prosecution alleges that Raj was a key figure in the syndicate, facilitating drug transactions through the dark web using the Wickr app and cryptocurrency. During the investigation, it was revealed that Raj had conducted transactions with Anurag Thakur via the Kucoin and Binance crypto platforms. The accused reportedly used an Aadhar card belonging to another individual, Mr. Sunil Kumar, to open his Kucoin account.
Significant quantities of narcotics, including 15.8 kilograms of marijuana seized at Delhi Airport and 54 kilograms of hydroponic weed intercepted at Chennai Airport, were traced back to Raj. These shipments, allegedly purchased from a supplier on the dark web known as “Mr. Taffy,” were intended for distribution across India.
Court’s Observations
In her judgment, Justice Sharma highlighted the advanced methods used by the accused to evade law enforcement, including the use of modern technology, cryptocurrency, and the dark web. The court found sufficient evidence at this stage to suggest Raj’s involvement in a larger conspiracy and his role as a source of commercial quantities of contraband.
The court also noted that Raj was already on bail for another NDPS Act case, further reinforcing the decision to deny bail. The judgment emphasized the bar under Section 37 of the NDPS Act, which restricts the granting of bail in cases involving commercial quantities of drugs unless certain conditions are met.
Legal Arguments
Raj’s defense, represented by Mr. V.C. Shukla and Mr. Tarun Gulia, argued that no incriminating material was recovered directly from him and challenged the admissibility of co-accused statements. They contended that the prosecution lacked concrete evidence linking Raj to the contraband.
However, the Additional Public Prosecutor, Mr. Manoj Pant, argued that Raj was deeply involved in the drug trade and highlighted the financial transactions and digital evidence connecting him to the co-accused and the recovered narcotics.
Conclusion
The court’s decision to deny bail underscores the gravity of the charges and the ongoing efforts to dismantle sophisticated drug trafficking operations. The case is scheduled for arguments on charge on February 13, 2024.
Justice Sharma concluded the judgment by clarifying that the observations made are preliminary and do not reflect the final merits of the case.
Next Steps
As the investigation continues, law enforcement agencies remain vigilant in tracking the activities of the syndicate and ensuring that those involved are brought to justice. The case serves as a stark reminder of the evolving challenges in combating drug trafficking in the digital age.
