A joint operation by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) and the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has uncovered an alleged illegal mephedrone manufacturing unit operating behind the appearance of a rosewater production facility in Orai, Uttar Pradesh. Authorities seized 15 kilograms of finished mephedrone, commonly known as MD, with an estimated value of ₹4.5 crore, and arrested two people.
According to investigators, the seized consignment was allegedly intended for distribution through an inter-state network, with four kilograms reportedly earmarked for markets in Uttar Pradesh and 11 kilograms planned for Mumbai. The investigation has since expanded, with the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) joining efforts to examine the suspected supply and distribution network.
The operation took place on Thursday at a facility in Aeri Rampura village, under the Dakor block of Orai. Officials arrested two individuals identified as Santosh Gawde and Hemant Kushwaha. Both have reportedly been remanded to judicial custody. However, the alleged prime operator of the unit, Shailendra Pal, remains absconding.
Red Diary Provides Investigators With New Leads
A red diary recovered during the raid has become an important part of the investigation. According to the report, it contains references to contacts, regional operators and suspected distribution arrangements.
Investigators are examining the material to identify people allegedly connected with the operation and establish how the seized drugs were intended to reach different destinations. The diary is also expected to help agencies examine possible links between the manufacturing facility and suspected distributors in several Uttar Pradesh districts.
The report identifies a Kanpur-based businessman named Rizwan as an alleged coordinator of the four-kilogram consignment intended for local distribution. Investigators suspect that the network involved multiple intermediaries operating across different districts. These connections are still being examined, and the identities and roles of other suspected associates have not been fully established.
Mumbai Link Expands the Scope of the Investigation
The alleged plan to send 11 kilograms of mephedrone to Mumbai has widened the investigation beyond Uttar Pradesh. Agencies are examining the suspected transportation arrangements and attempting to identify the intended recipients of the consignment.
The NCB's involvement is expected to support the investigation into possible inter-state links and the wider distribution network. Officials are also examining whether the seized quantity represented a one-time consignment or whether the facility may have been involved in earlier production and supply activities.
Investigators are reportedly reviewing financial transactions, communication records and other available evidence to establish the alleged connections between the manufacturing unit, intermediaries and prospective buyers.
The investigation is also looking into how the facility allegedly operated under the appearance of a rosewater production business. Authorities are examining whether this arrangement was used to conceal the suspected illegal activity and whether any other individuals or entities were involved.
Search for Alleged Main Operator Continues
The search for Shailendra Pal has reportedly been extended across several states. Joint teams from the DRI and UP ATS are pursuing leads connected to Hamirpur, Kanpur, Jhansi, Mumbai and Bhopal.
His arrest is considered important to establishing how long the alleged manufacturing operation had been active, who may have supplied its raw materials and whether the network had links with other locations.
Meanwhile, investigators are questioning the arrested accused and analysing the material recovered during the raid. The agencies are attempting to establish the complete chain of responsibility, from the alleged manufacturing operation to the intended distribution destinations.
The seizure represents a significant development in the investigation into suspected synthetic-drug manufacturing and inter-state trafficking. However, the full extent of the network, the involvement of other individuals and the history of the facility will depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation.
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