Major Drug Bust in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: Crime Branch Cracks Down on Illegal Cough Syrup Racket
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the city crime branch of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar successfully dismantled an illicit operation involved in the stocking and sale of intoxicating cough syrup. The operation, conducted on Tuesday, led to the seizure of contraband and valuables with a collective worth of Rs 12.46 lakh, marking a substantial blow to drug-related activities in the region.
Swift Action Based on Tip-Off Leads to Arrests
Acting on a crucial tip-off received earlier in the day, a specialized team from the crime branch launched a targeted raid at the residence of the prime accused, identified as Ubaidullah Abdullah, a 32-year-old resident of Rehmaniya Colony in Kiradpura. The prompt response by law enforcement officials underscores their commitment to curbing the spread of dangerous substances within the community.
During the thorough search of the premises, police uncovered a large consignment of cough syrup containing codeine phosphate and triprolidine hydrochloride. These substances are known for their narcotic effects and are frequently misused, posing serious health risks and contributing to addiction issues among vulnerable populations.
Details of the Seizure and Arrested Individuals
The seizure included 3,000 sealed bottles of CODYLINE cough syrup, each with a capacity of 100 ml. Valued at Rs 400 per bottle in the market, the total worth of the syrup alone amounts to Rs 12 lakh. In addition to the drugs, authorities recovered Rs 1,700 in cash and four mobile phones estimated to be worth Rs 45,000, bringing the overall seizure value to Rs 12,46,700.
Five individuals have been apprehended in connection with the racket. The arrested accused are:
- Sheikh Sofiyan Sheikh Nazir, aged 34
- Abdul Naveed Khan Abdul Samee Khan, aged 31
- Sheikh Naved Sheikh Hamid, aged 25
- Sheikh Ayyaz alias Sheru Sheikh Siraj, aged 42
All are residents of various localities within Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Meanwhile, seven other individuals have been named as wanted accused, and efforts are underway to locate and arrest them, as confirmed by ACP (crime) Ashok Rajput.
Investigation Reveals Supply Chain from Gujarat
Preliminary investigations conducted by the crime branch have shed light on the origins of the illicit consignment. According to ACP Ashok Rajput, the cough syrup was procured from Gujarat and had been supplied to several persons in the Shah Bazaar area prior to the bust. This revelation highlights the inter-state dimensions of drug trafficking networks and the need for coordinated efforts to disrupt such supply chains.
Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar emphasized the ongoing efforts of the city police, stating, "The city police are consistently implementing a special anti-drugs campaign, and such operations will continue." This statement reinforces the department's dedication to maintaining public safety and combating the menace of drug abuse through proactive measures.
Legal Proceedings and Further Investigation
A formal case has been registered at the Jinsi police station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The complaint was filed by crime branch sub-inspector Abhijeet Chikhalkar, initiating legal action against those involved.
Further investigation into the matter is being carried out by sub-inspector Sandeep Kale, who will delve deeper into the racket's operations, connections, and potential links to broader criminal networks. The bust serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to tackle drug-related crimes and protect communities from their harmful effects.
