Why this matters now
Organised crime is examined for its types, its links with terrorism and money laundering, and counter-measures — a recurring GS-3 internal-security theme.
Features of organised crime
Organised crime is characterised by a structured, hierarchical organisation, the pursuit of profit through illegal means, continuity, the use of violence and corruption, and increasingly transnational operations. Unlike ordinary crime, it functions like a criminal “enterprise.”
Types of organised crime
Major forms include drug trafficking (India lies between the “Golden Crescent” and “Golden Triangle”), human trafficking, arms smuggling, fake currency (FICN), extortion and contract violence, wildlife and antiquities trafficking, and cybercrime.
The crime-terror nexus
Organised crime and terrorism increasingly converge: criminal networks fund terrorism (drug money, extortion, FICN), share smuggling routes and logistics, and launder proceeds together. Narco-terrorism — using drug-trade profits to finance terror — is a prime example, making the two threats mutually reinforcing.
Counter-measures
Tackling organised crime needs strong laws and specialised agencies (NCB for drugs, ED for laundering, NIA for terror links), international cooperation (Interpol, treaties), financial intelligence and asset seizure, border and coastal security, and addressing the demand and socio-economic conditions that sustain it.
UPSC angle
Know the features and types of organised crime, the crime-terror nexus (narco-terrorism, FICN, shared routes/financing), and the agencies/measures. Link to money laundering and border management.
Frequently asked questions
What is organised crime?
Structured, continuous, profit-driven criminal activity by a group, using violence and corruption, and often operating transnationally.
What is the crime-terror nexus?
The growing convergence of organised crime and terrorism — criminal networks fund terror and share smuggling routes, logistics and money-laundering channels.
What is narco-terrorism?
The use of drug-trafficking profits to finance terrorist activities — a key form of the crime-terror nexus.
Which agencies counter organised crime in India?
The Narcotics Control Bureau (drugs), the Enforcement Directorate (money laundering) and the NIA (terror links), with international cooperation via Interpol.