The Narcotic Operation (2025)
A gripping Chinese crime drama spanning decades, tracing one officer's relentless pursuit of a drug empire built from desperation and greed.
The Narcotic Operation - Series Information
- Original Title: 扫毒风暴
- First Air Year: 2025
- Last Air Year: 2025
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Crime, Drama
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 33
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Chinese
- Spoken Languages: Mandarin
- Networks: Tencent Video
- Production Companies: New Classics Media 新丽传媒, Tencent Video
- Production Countries: China
- Alternative Titles: War on Drug (US)
The Narcotic Operation - Plot
In 1995, bankrupt smuggler Lu Shaohua turns to meth production for profits, while anti-narcotics cop Lin Qiangfeng transfers to Xigang after an undercover mission. Over years of cat-and-mouse across borders, Lin finally dismantles Lu's expanding drug empire.
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The Narcotic Operation - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Duan Yihong
- Qin Hao
- Kelly Yu
- Wu Xingjian
- Liu Huan
- Hou Yansong
- Li Yixiao
- Wu Xiaoliang
- Hu Ming
- Chang Shih
Writers
- Yuxin Chen
The Narcotic Operation - FAQs
What is The Narcotic Operation about?
Set in 1995, the series follows bankrupt smuggler Lu Shaohua as he turns to methamphetamine production, and anti-narcotics officer Lin Qiangfeng, who transfers to Xigang after an undercover mission. Their cat-and-mouse pursuit unfolds across borders over many years, culminating in Lin's dismantling of Lu's sprawling drug empire.
Who plays the lead roles in The Narcotic Operation?
Duan Yihong stars as anti-narcotics cop Lin Qiangfeng, while Qin Hao portrays the ruthless drug lord Lu Shaohua. Kelly Yu plays Wang Qi, with Wu Xingjian, Liu Huan, Hou Yansong, and Chang Shih rounding out the principal ensemble in key supporting roles.
Is The Narcotic Operation based on a true story?
While The Narcotic Operation is a fictional drama, it draws heavily on the real-world landscape of China's anti-drug enforcement campaigns. The 1990s setting and cross-border smuggling storylines reflect documented challenges faced by Chinese narcotics police during that era, lending the series a grounded, authentic atmosphere.
Where can I watch The Narcotic Operation?
The Narcotic Operation streams on Tencent Video, its original broadcast platform. Availability outside China may vary by region. Check your local streaming services or use a comparison tool like JustWatch to find the most current viewing options available in your area.
How many episodes does The Narcotic Operation have?
The series consists of 33 episodes across a single season. It concluded in 2025, delivering a complete, self-contained narrative that traces the decades-long rivalry between drug lord Lu Shaohua and anti-narcotics officer Lin Qiangfeng from beginning to resolution.
What makes The Narcotic Operation stand out among crime dramas?
The series distinguishes itself through its sweeping multi-year timeline, starting in 1995 and tracing the evolution of both the drug trade and law enforcement across decades. The dual-protagonist structure — giving equal weight to the cop and the criminal — creates a morally complex, propulsive narrative rarely seen in Chinese crime television.
Is The Narcotic Operation cancelled or has it ended?
The Narcotic Operation has concluded. The series ended in 2025 after its single 33-episode season, wrapping up its storyline as intended. It was not cancelled — the show reached its natural conclusion with Lin Qiangfeng finally dismantling Lu Shaohua's drug empire.
What shows are similar to The Narcotic Operation?
Fans of The Narcotic Operation may enjoy McMafia, a gripping international crime drama tracing organized crime across borders, or Hightown, which follows a law enforcement officer pursuing a drug network. Power Book IV: Force and Goliath also offer compelling cat-and-mouse dynamics between criminals and those determined to bring them down.
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