From Gujarat Highway to Karnataka Factory: How a Vehicle Stop Uncovered Major Drug Operation
The Narcotics Control Bureau has successfully dismantled a sophisticated clandestine drug laboratory operating in Mysuru, Karnataka, following a crucial vehicle interception in Gujarat that served as the breakthrough in this extensive investigation.
The Initial Interception That Started It All
On January 28, 2026, acting on specific intelligence inputs, authorities intercepted a Karnataka-registered Toyota Fortuner at Palsana in Gujarat's Surat district. A thorough search of the vehicle revealed approximately 35 kilograms of mephedrone, a powerful synthetic stimulant commonly known as "meow meow" in drug circles.
Three individuals, including alleged mastermind Mahindra Kumar Vishnoi, were immediately arrested at the scene. According to NCB officials, the suspects were transporting the substantial drug consignment for further distribution in Rajasthan when their operation was disrupted.
Uncovering the Manufacturing Hub
The vehicle interception proved to be just the beginning. Following leads from the Gujarat operation, NCB teams conducted searches at a manufacturing unit in Mysuru's Hebbal Industrial Area. What appeared to be a facility producing cleaning chemicals was actually a fully operational drug laboratory equipped with sophisticated instruments.
The Mysuru unit had been rented by a relative of Vishnoi, who has also been taken into custody as part of this expanding investigation. The premises have since been sealed for detailed forensic examination to gather additional evidence about the manufacturing processes employed.
The Mastermind's Criminal Evolution
Investigations have revealed that Vishnoi, a habitual offender with multiple cases registered against him in Rajasthan and Gujarat, developed his drug manufacturing ambitions during previous incarcerations. While serving time for earlier narcotics offenses, he reportedly studied synthetic drug production methods, market dynamics, and supply chain logistics.
Upon securing bail, Vishnoi allegedly operationalized his acquired knowledge by establishing the Mysuru laboratory in 2024. Since its inception, the facility had successfully produced and distributed multiple drug consignments before authorities finally penetrated the operation.
Significant Seizures and Ongoing Investigation
The coordinated operations have yielded substantial results:
- Drugs valued at approximately Rs 10 crore in the illegal market
- Cash amounting to Rs 25.6 lakh recovered from Vishnoi's residence
- The Toyota Fortuner used for transportation
- Various chemicals weighing over 500 kilograms
- 1.8 kilograms of opium discovered during searches
All four individuals arrested so far hail from Rajasthan's Jalore district, indicating potential interstate criminal networks. The NCB, with assistance from Surat police, continues its investigation to identify additional members of this drug cartel and trace the supply chains for laboratory equipment and precursor chemicals.
This case highlights the evolving nature of drug trafficking in India, where sophisticated manufacturing operations can be concealed within legitimate industrial areas, requiring equally sophisticated law enforcement responses to uncover and dismantle them.
