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KANPUR/ORAI: A major inter-state narcotics network has come to light following the bust of an illegal mephedrone (MD) manufacturing unit operating under the guise of a rosewater production facility in Orai. Investigative agencies revealed that 15 kilograms of manufactured MD seized from the site was slated to be routed from Kanpur to Mumbai. According to investigators, four kilograms of the consignment was meant to be distributed across several districts through the syndicate run by Kanpur-based businessman Rizwan, while the remaining 11 kilograms was scheduled for dispatch to Mumbai. The breakthrough came after law enforcement officers recovered a red diary, which has provided crucial leads regarding key contacts, logistical routes, and the broader distribution framework.
Following confirmation that Mumbai served as a primary consumption destination for the synthetic drug, the scope of the probe has expanded significantly. Alongside the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has stepped in to trace the inter-state transit lines. The joint operation was executed on Thursday when DRI and UP ATS personnel raided the facility located in Aeri Rampura village under Dakor block. Officers seized 15 kilograms of finished mephedrone and arrested two individuals, identified as Santosh Gawde and Hemant Kushwaha, both of whom have been remanded to judicial custody. However, the prime operator of the manufacturing unit, Shailendra Pal, remains absconding.
Distribution Net Stretches Across Multiple Districts
Investigators believe the rural setup was strategically established not merely for regional trade, but as a central production hub feeding an extensive multi-state network. The recovered red diary contains specific notes on regional operatives, delivery coordinates, and supply chains, which are now being analyzed to identify local distributors and their associates across Uttar Pradesh.
According to department sources, the four kilograms marked for local trade was entrusted to Rizwan, who commanded a network of sub-agents tasked with penetrating various districts. Agencies suspect the consignments were timed to exploit rising demand during upcoming festivals and private parties. Sleuths are currently questioning suspects to establish the exact chain of custody, the identities of prospective buyers, and the logistical conduits used to move illicit packages between Kanpur and adjoining administrative zones.
Major Consignment Targeted for Mumbai Market
The planned delivery of 11 kilograms to Mumbai indicates deep-rooted linkages with major metropolitan drug rings. Central agencies are probing the logistical infrastructure arranged to transport the commercial haul across state boundaries, as well as the individuals designated to receive the shipment upon arrival.
With the NCB joining the ongoing investigation, authorities are scrutinizing historical transactions to determine whether the facility had previously dispatched similar consignments or if this 15-kilogram seizure formed part of a single bulk contract. Financial transactions, call detail records, and supply channels used to procure precursor chemicals under the cover of floral distillation are being systematically mapped out to dismantle the financial foundation of the enterprise.
Inter-State Manhunt Launched for Key Accused
The search for prime accused Shailendra Pal has been widened across five states, with joint teams from the DRI and UP ATS conducting coordinated raids. Dedicated police and intelligence teams are tracking his known hideouts, operational bases, and contacts across Hamirpur, Kanpur, Jhansi, Mumbai, and Bhopal.
Officials stated that Pal’s arrest remains vital to uncovering how long the clandestine laboratory had functioned undetected, the sources from which raw manufacturing ingredients were procured, and the full extent of patronage protecting the racket. Until the mastermind is apprehended, agencies remain focused on decrypting the red diary entries and interrogating detained suspects to neutralize the entire syndicate.
