Illegal drug operation dismantled in Bhopal by DRI authorities; mephedrone worth approximately $12.5 billion INR confiscated
In a significant blow to the illicit drug trade, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has busted an underground Mephedrone manufacturing facility in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The operation, codenamed 'Operation Crystal Break', involved raids across Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh.
The clandestine factory, located in a secluded premises covered from all sides to camouflage it, was found in the village of Jagdishpur (formerly Islamnagar) in Bhopal district. The illegal operation was orchestrated by K.V. Naveen Kumar, who is believed to be the leader of the Mephedrone network in India, according to a DRI press release.
Preliminary investigations revealed that funds were transferred from Surat and Mumbai to Bhopal via hawala channels. As a result, several key players were apprehended. Two individuals, including the chemist responsible for manufacturing Mephedrone, were arrested in Bhopal. Two suppliers, illegally providing chemicals/raw materials, were apprehended at Mumbai. A key member of the drug cartel was apprehended in Basti, Uttar Pradesh. One close associate of the cartel, responsible for fund transfer, was arrested in Surat.
The person responsible for the transportation of chemicals/raw materials from Mumbai to Bhopal was also apprehended. In addition to the Mephedrone, 541.53 kg of raw materials and a complete set of processing equipment were seized. The search led to the recovery and seizure of 61.20 kg of Mephedrone in liquid form.
Mephedrone is a psychotropic substance listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. The seized drug is estimated to be worth approximately Rs 92 crore. All seven arrested persons have admitted to their roles in the clandestine manufacturing of Mephedrone on the directions of an overseas operator and kingpin of the Mephedrone network in India.
This is the sixth clandestine Mephedrone factory busted by the DRI in the past one year. The DRI continues to work tirelessly to combat the illicit drug trade and protect the citizens of India.
