Chennai police have arrested Pradeep Kumar, a 38-year-old man from Salem, Tamil Nadu, for his alleged role in a cocaine trafficking network. The arrest, made on June 17, 2025, has exposed a drug ring with links to high-profile clients, including a well-known actor, and international connections.
Acting on a tip-off after a bar brawl in Chennai’s Nungambakkam area, the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit (ANIU) and local police detained Kumar, also known as Prado, along with John, a 38-year-old Ghanaian national. Authorities seized 11 grams of cocaine from the suspects. Kumar faces charges under India’s anti-narcotics laws for possessing and selling the drug.
Investigations revealed Kumar bought cocaine from a Nigerian supplier in Bengaluru for $85 per gram and sold it in Chennai for $145, making over $6,000 in profits through more than 40 deals. Police say Kumar supplied the drug to T. Prasad, a former political party member, who sold it to clients, including Tamil-Telugu actor Srikanth. Kumar claimed he saw Srikanth use cocaine at private parties and clubs in Chennai.
The case has shocked India’s entertainment and political circles, highlighting Tamil Nadu’s growing role as a transit point for illegal drugs. Police are now hunting for the Bengaluru-based supplier and investigating possible links to Sri Lanka. More arrests are expected as authorities work to dismantle the network.
Chennai Police continue to investigate, urging the public to report suspicious activities to curb drug trafficking in the region.
For updates, contact Chennai Police.
