Lucknow, November 27, 2025: The Special Task Force (STF) has made a major arrest in a large-scale codeine-mixed cough syrup smuggling syndicate. Amit Singh Tata, a close associate of fugitive mastermind Shubham Jaiswal from Varanasi, was apprehended in Lucknow. His father, Ashok Singh, already has an FIR registered against him. The STF has confirmed that in-depth questioning of Amit Tata is underway.
Sources reveal that Amit Tata is linked to the Jharkhand-based firm “Devkripa”, which played a significant role in supplying the codeine syrup. The smuggling operation extended beyond India, reaching Bangladesh. Investigations have also highlighted that Asif, based in Dubai and originally from Meerut, is an active member of this network. STF is also tracking other individuals, including a former Uttar Pradesh police officer who was dismissed from service, suspected to be involved in the syndicate.
Timeline of the Syndicate’s Exposure and Arrests
The syndicate was first exposed on October 18 by Sonbhadra Police. Subsequently, Saurabh Tyagi was arrested from Ghaziabad on November 4. Shubham Jaiswal fled to Dubai on November 5. The arrest of Amit Tata is considered a critical step in the ongoing investigation. STF officials stated that questioning him is expected to provide vital leads regarding other fugitive members and the syndicate’s organizational structure.
The investigation also revealed that a key individual, referred to as “ID”, played a pivotal role in transporting the syrup from Jharkhand to the Bangladesh border. His whereabouts are currently under intensive scrutiny. In Dubai, Asif reportedly managed the booking and distribution of the banned syrup internationally.
Shubham Jaiswal’s Network and Legal Proceedings
Shubham Jaiswal, based in Varanasi, remains the mastermind behind the syndicate and is now in hiding in Dubai. STF has compiled a detailed list of his close associates and network members. Investigations indicate that the operations were also facilitated through former drug officials and chartered accountants.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT), in collaboration with STF, is reviewing records and transactions of 28 firms linked to the syndicate. Additionally, a three-member SIT along with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Income Tax Department are conducting an extensive investigation into the smuggling network. Sources estimate that the total value of the illicit operation exceeds INR 100 crore.
Future Action and International Coordination
STF confirmed that Amit Tata’s interrogation will help identify other fugitive members and locate network associates. International cooperation is likely to track down Asif in Dubai and other key collaborators.
The scale of the codeine cough syrup smuggling has caused alarm across Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand. Officials emphasize that this is only the beginning, and more significant arrests are expected in the coming weeks.
Conclusion:
The arrest of Amit Tata and continuous STF action is expected to put pressure on the syndicate’s remaining members. The investigation into the full supply chain and international transactions is intensifying, marking a crucial step in dismantling this cross-border smuggling network.
