SONBHADRA: The investigation into the illegal trade of narcotic cough syrup in Sonbhadra has revealed a major financial trail connected to Shaili Traders, the prime stockist under scrutiny. According to preliminary findings, the firm carried out suspicious transactions amounting to nearly ₹425 crore over the past two years. The SIT has intensified its probe into what officials describe as a multilayered network operating across districts, even as key accused Shubham Jaiswal continues to evade arrest.
30 bank accounts frozen; ₹60 lakh detected
The SIT has identified and frozen 30 bank accounts suspected to be linked with the illicit supply chain. These accounts cumulatively hold around ₹60 lakh. Investigators believe the amount is only a fraction of the total proceeds generated through the illegal operation, suggesting that large sums may have been diverted through alternate routes. Detailed scrutiny of banking patterns, digital transfers and shadow accounts is underway.
Chartered accountant served notice, financial records demanded
A notice has been issued to Vishnu Agrawal, the chartered accountant of Shaili Traders and a resident of Varanasi. He has been directed to appear before investigators by December 10 and furnish all financial documents, including ledgers, GST filings, sales records and bank statements. Officials are examining whether the company masked large-scale diversion of cough syrup consignments under the guise of regular pharmaceutical supplies.
Medical stores and drug distributors under scanner
The probe has widened to include multiple medical stores and drug agencies allegedly linked to the distribution network. Notices have been sent to establishments such as:
- Maa Kripa Medical Store and Shiviksha Firm in Sonbhadra
- Dilip Medical Agency in Bhadohi’s Nai Bazar
- Ayush Enterprises; Rajendra & Sons Drug Agency in Parsipur
- and firms operated by Ankita Gupta
The owner of the building that housed one of the implicated firms has also been asked to appear. Investigators aim to determine the volume of purchases routed through these outlets and their direct or indirect association with Shaili Traders.
Network suspected to span multiple districts
Superintendent of Police Abhishek Verma said the ₹425-crore trail represents only the initial layer of the investigation. Teams are analysing billing records, procurement cycles and suspected forged purchase orders to map the spread of the network. Preliminary indications suggest that the supply chain may extend beyond district boundaries and could involve facilitators in other regions.
Key accused still absconding; more disclosures expected
Prime accused Shubham Jaiswal remains missing, and police are relying on digital surveillance, past communication logs and financial links to trace his movements. Officials say several individuals connected with the supply chain have been identified, and more significant disclosures are expected as the investigation progresses.
