Major Drug Network Dismantled by NCB in Multi-City Operation
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has successfully dismantled a sophisticated drug manufacturing and distribution network in a coordinated operation spanning two states. The agency conducted raids in Surat district, Gujarat, and Mysore, Karnataka, on Friday, leading to the seizure of narcotics with an estimated street value of Rs 10 crore. This significant bust highlights the ongoing efforts to combat organized drug trafficking in the region.
Three Arrests and Custody Details
As part of the operation, the NCB arrested three accused individuals, all residents of Jalore in Rajasthan. The arrested persons have been identified as Mahendra Bishnoi, Suresh Bishnoi, and Dina Bishnoi. Following their arrest, they were produced before a local court, which remanded them to NCB custody for a period of seven days to facilitate further interrogation and investigation into the network's operations.
Seizures and Raid Outcomes
The operation began when, acting on specific intelligence, NCB officials intercepted an SUV near Palsana in Surat district on January 28. During the vehicle check, authorities discovered approximately 35 kg of mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant drug. Subsequently, a raid was conducted at Mahendra Bishnoi's rented residence in Dastan Residency, Palsana, where investigators recovered 1.8 kg of opium.
In addition to the drug seizures, the NCB confiscated cash amounting to Rs 25 lakh and impounded the SUV used in the transportation. The operation extended to Mysore, where a clandestine manufacturing unit was uncovered. From this facility, located in the Hebbal Industrial Area, the NCB seized around 500 kg of chemicals used in drug production.
Background and Investigation Insights
Investigations revealed that Mahendra Bishnoi, the alleged mastermind, was transporting mephedrone (MD) for distribution in Rajasthan. Mahendra had previously been arrested in August 2022 for selling opium in Jolwa, Palsana. During his time in jail, he reportedly conceived the idea of manufacturing synthetic drugs after discussions with other inmates. He educated himself on the processes of drug manufacturing, market demand, and supply chains for synthetic narcotics.
Upon being released on bail, Mahendra operationalized his plan by establishing a covert manufacturing unit in Mysore. This facility, set up in 2024 and operational since then, was disguised as a chemical manufacturing unit for cleaning purposes. It was rented by a co-accused and relative of Mahendra, whose name has not been disclosed by the NCB. The unit housed a full-fledged laboratory equipped with sophisticated instruments for drug production, underscoring the network's advanced capabilities.
Implications and Ongoing Efforts
This bust underscores the NCB's vigilance in tackling drug trafficking networks that span multiple states. The seizure of significant quantities of drugs and chemicals, along with the arrest of key individuals, is expected to disrupt the supply chain in the region. Authorities continue to investigate the broader connections and potential international links of this network to ensure comprehensive enforcement of anti-narcotics laws.
