US revokes visas of Indian executives over drug links — official

ISLAMABAD: The United States (US) has revoked and denied visas for a number of Indian business executives and corporate leaders allegedly involved in trafficking chemical precursors used in the production of fentanyl, the US Embassy in New Delhi announced Thursday.

Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid, 30 to 50 times stronger than heroin and up to 100 times more powerful than morphine. While it is used medically for pain management, it has become a leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States due to its illegal production and distribution.

“In line with President Trump’s efforts to protect Americans from dangerous synthetic narcotics, the US Embassy in New Delhi has revoked and denied visas to certain business executives and corporate leaders for their involvement in trafficking fentanyl precursors,” the statement said.

While no names were disclosed, a spokesperson confirmed to U.S. News that the individuals are Indian nationals.

As a result, these individuals, and in some cases, their family members, may now be ineligible to travel to the States.

The embassy also said that executives connected to companies previously identified as trafficking fentanyl precursors will face heightened scrutiny when applying for US visas in the future.

“The US Embassy in New Delhi remains committed to combating illicit drug trafficking,” said Chargé d’affaires Jorgan Andrews. “Individuals and organizations involved in the illegal production and trafficking of drugs to the United States, along with their families, will face consequences, including potential denial of entry.”

The American government has identified the disruption of fentanyl trafficking, including chemical precursor flows, as a top priority under President Trump’s administration.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not issued an official response.

Previously, President Trump imposed tariffs on certain imports from China, Mexico, and Canada due to their alleged roles in facilitating fentanyl smuggling into the US, according to U.S. News.