Maharashtra ANTF Cracks Down on Mephedrone Units in Bengaluru: 4 Arrested, Rs 55.88 Crore Worth of Drugs Seized

The Maharashtra Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) has successfully dismantled three mephedrone manufacturing units in Bengaluru, leading to the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of drugs worth Rs 55.88 crore. This significant operation, which began on December 21, involved a series of coordinated raids and investigations that culminated in the apprehension of key suspects and the disruption of a major drug supply network.

The chain of events began on December 21 when the Konkan unit of ANTF conducted a raid in Vashi, Navi Mumbai. During this operation, one Abdul Qadir Rashid Shaikh was arrested along with 1.488 kilograms of mephedrone, valued at Rs 1.48 crore. Shaikh provided crucial information that led the probe team to Prashant Yallappa Patil, a resident of Belgaum and the key figure behind the mephedrone manufacturing units in Bengaluru.

In a meticulously planned operation monitored by ANTF chief Sharda Raut and Superintendent M M Makandar, the team conducted raids at the three manufacturing units in Bengaluru. During these raids, two additional suspects, Suraj Ramesh Yadav and Malkhan Ramlal Bishnoi, were arrested. Both Yadav and Bishnoi, who are from Rajasthan, confessed to their involvement in the production of synthetic drugs at these units.

The raids resulted in the seizure of 4.10 kilograms of mephedrone, 17 kilograms of liquid mephedrone, and various items used in the manufacture of the contraband. The total value of the seized items is estimated at Rs 55.88 crore. The drugs from these units were allegedly supplied to various states, and the accused are believed to have invested the proceeds of their illegal activities in purchasing real estate in Bengaluru.

Apart from the four individuals already arrested—Shaikh, Patil, Yadav, and Bishnoi—the ANTF is making all-out efforts to apprehend two key persons who are still at large in this drug network. The ongoing investigation aims to further dismantle the entire drug supply chain and bring all those involved to justice.

The ANTF's successful operation in Bengaluru highlights the agency's commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. The seizure of such a significant amount of mephedrone and the arrest of key suspects represent a major blow to the drug trade in the region. The ANTF continues to work tirelessly to identify and dismantle drug manufacturing and distribution networks, protecting communities from the harmful effects of illegal drugs.