Jones Michael, a 32-year-old Nigerian footballer, has been arrested in India after authorities allegedly found him in possession of methamphetamine valued at ₹15 lakh (approximately ₦27.9 million).
According to The Times of India, Michael was nabbed last Saturday near the Vijayamangalam toll gate in Erode, Tamil Nadu. The arrest was carried out by the Prohibition Enforcement Wing team, led by Inspector Sivahami Rani, following a tip-off.
Further investigation revealed that Michael had overstayed in India without valid immigration papers. His passport reportedly expired in 2023, and officials suspect he may have illegally entered the country via sea routes.
“It’s possible he entered the country through illegal maritime means,” Inspector Rani stated.
Michael has been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as well as the Foreigners Act. He is currently in judicial custody at Coimbatore Central Prison.
Additionally, a 49-year-old local man named Melvin, from Perundurai, was also arrested for renting out accommodation to Michael without confirming his identity or immigration status.