In a major victory against the illegal pharmaceutical trade, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has exposed and dismantled a sophisticated drug manufacturing operation in Gujarat's Valsad district. The clandestine factory was allegedly producing massive quantities of Alprazolam, a potent psychotropic substance widely misused as a recreational drug.
The raid, conducted based on specific intelligence, led to the seizure of staggering quantities of the banned substance:
- Approximately 50 kg of finished Alprazolam tablets
- Roughly 25 kg of Alprazolam powder in raw form
- Significant quantities of manufacturing equipment and packaging materials
Preliminary estimates suggest the seized contraband has a street value running into several crores of rupees, highlighting the scale of the illegal operation.
The Mastermind and Manufacturing Setup
Investigations have identified a Gujarat-based businessman as the alleged mastermind behind this sophisticated drug manufacturing ring. The operation was cleverly concealed within an industrial unit, using legitimate business as a front for its illicit activities.
"The sophistication of the setup was alarming," revealed a DRI official familiar with the operation. "They had established a proper manufacturing line capable of producing commercial quantities of this banned substance, complete with packaging and labeling machinery."
Alprazolam: The Dangerous Substance
Alprazolam, commonly known by brand names like Alprax, is a potent benzodiazepine primarily prescribed for anxiety disorders. However, its misuse has become widespread due to:
- Its addictive properties when used recreationally
- The euphoric high it produces when consumed in large quantities
- Its growing popularity among youth as a party drug
The substance is strictly controlled under India's Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, making its unauthorized manufacture and distribution a serious criminal offense.
Ongoing Investigation and Nationwide Implications
The DRI is currently investigating the distribution network that was supplied by this factory. Early findings suggest the manufactured drugs were being distributed across multiple states, feeding the growing demand for prescription drug abuse.
This bust represents one of the significant crackdowns on illegal pharmaceutical manufacturing in western India this year, coming as part of the government's intensified efforts to combat the prescription drug abuse epidemic.
The arrested individuals face serious charges under the NDPS Act, which could lead to stringent punishment including extended imprisonment if convicted.
