UP Police Attach Rs 80 Crore Properties of Alleged Drug Kingpin Under NDPS Act
In a significant crackdown on narcotics networks, the Muzaffarnagar Police in Uttar Pradesh have secured orders to attach properties worth approximately Rs 80 crore belonging to an alleged drug trafficker under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Officials confirmed the development on Tuesday, marking a major victory in the ongoing battle against organized drug crime in the region.
Operation Savera: A Targeted Campaign Against Drug Networks
The action was executed as part of 'Operation Savera', a special campaign meticulously designed to dismantle drug trafficking networks and target their financial assets. This drive is being conducted under the direct supervision of Saharanpur range DIG Abhishek Singh and Muzaffarnagar Senior Superintendent of Police Sanjay Kumar Verma. The operation underscores a strategic shift towards hitting criminals where it hurts most—their illicit wealth.
The Accused and His Extensive Network
The accused, identified as Babu alias Riaz alias Asfaq, is a resident of Bareilly who is currently based in Shahjahanpur. He was previously arrested by Budhana police with a large quantity of heroin valued at several crores. Subsequent investigations revealed that he had built a vast and sophisticated network of drug trafficking, accumulating substantial illegal wealth over many years through his nefarious activities.
Comprehensive Financial Probe and Property Attachment
Following his arrest, a special team led by SP (Rural) Aditya Bansal launched an extensive financial probe into properties acquired by the accused. The investigation meticulously traced assets held not only in his own name but also in the names of family members and relatives, aiming to uncover the full extent of his illicit empire.
On March 24, the competent authority issued formal orders for the attachment of 34 properties linked to the accused. These assets are spread across Bareilly and Shahjahanpur districts and include:
- Agricultural land
- Residential plots
- Commercial buildings
- Brick kilns
- Showrooms
- Vehicles
Police authorities have stated unequivocally that all these assets were acquired through the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking, highlighting the direct link between narcotics trade and the accumulation of such wealth.
Criminal History and Ongoing Legal Actions
The accused is a known history-sheeter with multiple cases registered against him under the NDPS Act and other criminal charges across Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. His extensive criminal record underscores the persistent threat posed by such individuals to public safety and law enforcement efforts.
Official Statements and Future Commitments
In a firm declaration of intent, Bhanu Bhaskar, ADG of Meerut Zone, stated, "No illegal property acquired through the narcotics trade will be spared in the entire zone. We are committed to taking strict and decisive action against such criminals to ensure justice and deter future offenses." This statement reinforces the police's unwavering commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and their financial underpinnings.
The attachment of these properties represents a critical step in disrupting the economic foundations of drug trafficking networks, sending a clear message that illicit gains will not be tolerated. As Operation Savera continues, authorities remain vigilant in their pursuit of justice and the protection of society from the scourge of narcotics.
