Michelle Topham 
Chinese Title: 扫毒风暴 (Sǎo Dú Fēng Bào)
English Title: The Narcotic Operation
Also Known As: Dong Qu Chun Lai (冬去春来), Drug-Busting Storm
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery, Police Drama
Episodes: 33
Screenwriter: Chen Yu Xin
Director: Wu Bai
Production Companies: CCTV, Tencent Video, New Classics Media, Wenxin Media, Wuyuan Culture
Plot Synopsis
The Narcotic Operation is a gritty crime thriller set in mid-1990s China, following the long, dangerous battle between narcotics law enforcement and the rising world of drug trafficking. When smuggler Lu Shaohua discovers the huge profits in methamphetamine production, he dives head-first into crime — becoming increasingly ambitious and ruthless.
Transferred to the Xigang Anti-Drug Brigade, seasoned narcotics officer Lin Qiangfeng and his team methodically pursue clues, dismantle trafficking networks, and hunt down major players in the drug trade.
Over years of cat-and-mouse pursuit, including international ties and brutal turf battles, Lin never loses sight of his mission to protect society from the destructive impact of narcotics.
The series traces this tense, decades-spanning conflict — exposing corruption, sacrifice, loyalty, and the psychological toll on both cops and criminals as they race against time and morality.
Main Cast & Characters
Lead Cast
- Duan Yi ong as Lin Qiangfeng
- Qin Hao as Lu Shaohua
Supporting Cast
- Yu Wen Wen as Wang Qi
- Wu Xing Jian as Yang Wei
- Liu Huan as Li An
- Hou Yan Song as Luo Bing Zhang
- Wu Xiao Liang as Zhou Shao Xiong
- Hu Ming as Wang Hui
Production Details
Production & Distribution: The series was co-produced by major domestic partners including CCTV and Tencent Video, with widespread TV and streaming distribution in China.
The drama blends police procedural realism with character-driven storytelling, emphasizing both the tactical pursuit of drug networks and the personal cost borne by law enforcement officers over years of relentless pursuit.
Episodes & Airing
- Total Episodes: 33
- Episode Length: 45 minutes
- First Aired: July 12th, 2025
- Final Episode: July 25th, 2025
- Original Network / Platforms: CCTV-8 and Tencent Video
Where to Watch
China:
- CCTV-8 — Official TV broadcaster of the series.
- Tencent Video — Domestic streaming platform carrying the drama.
International Platforms:
- WeTV
Why It’s Worth Watching
- Intense Crime Thriller: The Narcotic Operation delivers a hard-hitting look at drug trafficking and police work, blending procedural accuracy with emotional stakes.
- Realistic Cat-and-Mouse Narrative: The long-term pursuit of Lu Shaohua by Lin Qiangfeng shows strategy, grit, and the psychological toll of law enforcement.
- Strong Ensemble Cast: With respected actors like Duan Yihong and Qin Hao leading, the character dynamics are nuanced and compelling.
- Social Relevance: Tackling narcotics, corruption, and public safety themes, the series resonates with contemporary crime drama fans.
Articles About The Narcotic Operation
Duan Yi Hong and Qin Hao’s ‘The Narcotic Operation’ poster celebrates 500,000 reservations
The Narcotic Operation earns 1 million reservations – celebratory poster released
The Narcotic Operation hits 22,000 on Tencent’s heat index as crime drama premieres on Tencent/WeTV
The Narcotic Operation exceeds 25,000 on Tencent’s heat index with just 7 episodes out
About the Author
