In a significant operation, the Kandivli Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) of Mumbai Police uncovered an illegal mephedrone (MD) manufacturing laboratory operating from a rented one-bedroom-hall-kitchen flat in South Mumbai's Agripada area. The raid left authorities astonished as neither the flat owner nor the neighbors had any suspicion of the clandestine operation.
Arrests and Seizures
The three individuals arrested have been identified as Shoiab Shaukat alias Mansur, Sufiyan Mansur, and Mamuni Sarkar. Police seized a total of 14.493 kilograms of narcotics, including 8.305 kilograms of liquid MD and 6.188 kilograms of mephedrone powder, collectively valued at approximately Rs 50.74 crore. Additionally, chemicals, raw materials, and equipment used for manufacturing the synthetic drug were recovered. A pistol along with 19 live cartridges was also confiscated from the premises.
Key Details of the Accused
According to police, Shoiab Shaukat is a habitual robber with several body offenses registered against him. Mamuni Sarkar and Shoiab are reportedly in a live-in relationship. The flat, located in Yasmin Tower, was raided on May 25 by a team led by Inspector Shashikant Jagdale based on specific intelligence.
Legal Action
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Arms Act. During investigation, police discovered that Shoaib was receiving instructions over the phone on how to manufacture the drug. Authorities have seized their mobile phones to trace the individuals to whom the contraband was being sold.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Navnath Dhavale stated, We have just arrested the three accused and are trying to figure out for what purpose they had procured the weapon and whether they had used it somewhere.
The operation highlights the ongoing efforts of Mumbai Police to combat drug trafficking and manufacturing in the city. Further investigations are underway to uncover the broader network involved.
