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New Delhi, Oct 24 (IANS) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has busted a major narcotics manufacturing and distribution network operating in the National Capital Region, arresting 26 foreign nationals and seizing a huge quantity of heroin, cocaine and amphetamines, worth Rs 108.81 crore in the illicit international market, according to an official statement released on Friday.
A total of 16.27 kg of amphetamine, 7.9 kg of cocaine, 1.8 kg of heroin, 2.13 kg of ganja and 115.42 kg of precursor chemicals – having a total street value of approximately Rs 108.81 crore – were seized during the operation.
The coordinated multi-day operation was conducted between 21 and 23 October. Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials raided a clandestine methamphetamine manufacturing facility located in an isolated farm near high-rise residential buildings in Greater Noida. The search resulted in the seizure of 11.40 kg of amphetamine and 110.923 kg of precursor chemicals used for its manufacture, the statement said.
Along with this, the main operator of the syndicate was arrested from his residence in Gurugram and 1.33 kg of amphetamine was recovered from his possession.
In a prompt follow-up, DRI officials identified additional premises in West Delhi which are suspected to be used for storage and distribution of contraband. Located in a densely populated area with narrow streets, the complex faced significant logistical and security challenges.
During the raid the officers encountered a large number of persons who attempted to obstruct the official proceedings. The statement said that despite the hostile environment and the risk of evidence being destroyed, the DRI team – assisted by Delhi Police – displayed restraint and tactical acumen, successfully secured the premises and completed the search.
The operation resulted in several arrests and recovery of 7.79 kg of cocaine, 1.87 kg of heroin, 3.54 kg of amphetamine, 2 kg of ganja, 0.15 kg of methaqualone and 4.50 kg of precursor chemicals used in drug production as well as Rs 37 lakh in cash, suspected to be the proceeds of drug trafficking.
Further investigation is underway to identify the syndicate’s extensive network and possible international links.
“This complex operation, executed across multiple jurisdictions and in challenging field conditions, exemplifies DRI’s commitment to intelligence-led enforcement, inter-agency coordination and combating the threat of drug trafficking and synthetic drug manufacturing,” the statement said.
–IANS
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