Muzaffarnagar Police Secure Orders to Attach Rs 80 Crore Properties in Major Drug Bust
In a significant crackdown on narcotics networks, Muzaffarnagar Police have obtained orders to attach 34 illegal properties valued at nearly Rs 80 crore. These assets are linked to an alleged drug trafficker as part of Operation Savera, an initiative focused on curbing drug trafficking and fostering a drug-free society across the Saharanpur range.
Background of the Accused and Investigation
The action stems from the arrest of Babu alias Riaz alias Asfaq, a 35-year-old history-sheeter from Shahjahanpur. He was previously apprehended by Budhana police in Muzaffarnagar with high-value smuggled narcotics. Investigations uncovered that the accused had built an extensive illegal empire through drug trafficking, acquiring 34 properties in Bareilly and Shahjahanpur under his name and those of his relatives.
These properties include:
- Agricultural land
- Residential plots
- Multi-storey commercial showrooms
- Brick kilns
- Vehicles and other assets
Police Probe and Legal Proceedings
On the directives of Deputy Inspector General of Police, Saharanpur range, Abhishek Singh, a special team led by SP (Rural) Aditya Bansal conducted a thorough investigation into the accused's financial holdings. Based on their findings, police submitted a report under section 68(F) of the NDPS Act to the competent authority in New Delhi. After reviewing the evidence, the authority ordered the attachment of all identified assets on Tuesday.
Police records indicate the accused has a lengthy criminal history, with multiple cases registered under the NDPS Act in Delhi, Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, and Muzaffarnagar. These involve cases by Delhi Police's special cell and crime branch, along with several FIRs related to drug trafficking and associated offences. He is also implicated in serious criminal cases under IPC provisions, such as attempt to murder, assault, and criminal intimidation, plus a recent case under the BNS.
Official Statement and Impact
SSP Sanjay Kumar Verma emphasized, "The action sends a strong message that assets acquired through the illegal drug trade will not be allowed to stand. We are committed to breaking the financial backbone of narcotics networks. Such action will continue."
This move is part of a broader effort to dismantle the economic foundations of drug cartels in the region, targeting the Saharanpur range that includes Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, and Shamli districts. By seizing these high-value assets, authorities aim to disrupt the flow of illicit funds and deter future trafficking activities.
