Major Drug Bust in Pratapgarh: Police Uncover Interstate Racket with Rs 1.60 Crore MD Seizure
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Pratapgarh district police executed a high-stakes raid under Operation Chakravyuh, leading to the recovery of 1.897 kilograms of illegal Mephedrone (MD) and a cache of weapons. The operation, which took place in a secluded field along the Asawata-Kulthana road, has exposed a sophisticated interstate drug manufacturing and distribution network operating from a makeshift hut.
Details of the Raid and Seizures
The raid was conducted by a specialized team from the Hathuniya police station, acting on precise intelligence and under the direct supervision of District Superintendent of Police B Aditya. Police officials described the scene as a modern mini setup for drug production, housed within a hut constructed from cement sheets in an otherwise deserted agricultural field.
Authorities seized the MD from the spot, with its estimated value in the international market pegged at a staggering Rs 1.60 crore. In addition to the narcotics, police confiscated a range of drug manufacturing equipment, including:
- An induction cooker
- A mixer
- A heater
- An electronic weighing scale
These items indicate a well-organized operation capable of producing substantial quantities of illegal substances.
Arrests and Interrogation Findings
Following the raid, police cordoned off the area and apprehended two individuals from the scene. The arrested accused have been identified as Murad Khan Pathan (28), a resident of Asawata in Pratapgarh, and Mohammad Junaid (48), hailing from Mehsana, Gujarat. During interrogation, the duo confessed to having been actively engaged in drug preparation at the location for the past two days.
Police investigations revealed that two other suspects, Jeevan Anjana from Pratapgarh and Sharik alias Jerry from Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, managed to escape under the cover of darkness. Multiple police teams have been mobilized and are conducting extensive raids across the region to locate and apprehend these fugitives.
Recovery of Weapons and Vehicles
In a concerning development, the raid also led to the recovery of illegal firearms. A loaded pistol and five live cartridges were found in the possession of the main accused, Murad Khan Pathan. Police records indicate that Murad Khan has a prior criminal history, with involvement in serious cases including attempt to murder and violations under the NDPS Act.
Additionally, authorities took custody of a motorcycle and a car that were allegedly used in the smuggling operations, further dismantling the logistical support of the racket.
Implications and Ongoing Efforts
This bust underscores the persistent challenges posed by interstate drug networks and highlights the proactive measures being taken by law enforcement in Rajasthan. Operation Chakravyuh represents a concerted effort to disrupt such illicit activities and safeguard communities from the scourge of narcotics.
Police officials have emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on tracing the supply chain, identifying additional accomplices, and ensuring that all individuals involved face the full force of the law. The successful operation serves as a stern warning to those engaged in drug trafficking in the region.
