In New Delhi, a collaborative effort between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the ATS of Gujarat Police successfully dismantled a cross-border narcotics syndicate operating in Gujarat and Rajasthan, resulting in the closure of three sophisticated drug production facilities. The operation, dubbed “Operation Prayagshala,” culminated in the confiscation of drugs valued at Rs 300 crore.
According to Gyaneshwar Singh, Deputy Director General of the NCB, seven individuals have been apprehended thus far since the operation commenced on Friday evening. “The mastermind behind the illicit drug network has been identified, and imminent apprehension is anticipated. Our investigative efforts persist as we delve into the intricacies of the distribution network,” remarked Singh.
Singh lauded the operation as a prime exemplar of seamless inter-agency collaboration. “ATS Gujarat Police received intelligence from a confidential informant regarding clandestine Mephedrone production facilities operating across Gujarat and Rajasthan. A joint task force comprising ATS Gujarat Police and NCB operatives was assembled to dismantle these facilities. Over the past three months, we meticulously monitored and identified key players within the network, as well as pinpointed the locations of covert laboratories,” elucidated Singh.
In the early hours of the morning, coordinated raids were executed simultaneously by joint units of ATS Gujarat Police and NCB at three suspected sites: Bhinmal in Jalore district of Rajasthan, Osian in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan, and Gandhinagar district in Gujarat. This concerted effort resulted in the seizure of 149 kilograms of Mephedrone (in powder and liquid forms), 50 kilograms of Ephedrine, and 200 liters of Acetone, along with the apprehension of seven suspects.
“Based on the interrogations conducted in Gandhinagar, we have identified another potential site in Amreli, Gujarat, where ongoing raids are underway. We anticipate further discoveries,” added Singh.
Efforts are underway to locate and apprehend the principal orchestrator of the syndicate. “Our focus extends beyond mere apprehension; we are actively tracing the origin of precursor chemicals and scrutinizing the national and international distribution channels,” affirmed Singh. Notably, Mephedrone, known by aliases such as 4-methylmethcathinone, 4-MMC, and 4-methylephedrone, belongs to the synthetic stimulant category encompassing amphetamines and cathinones. Common monikers for the drug include drone, M-CAT, White Magic, “meow meow,” and bubble.