In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Delhi and Gujarat police have seized 518 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately ₹5,000 crore from a Gujarat-based chemical company. This raid is part of an extensive investigation that has led to a total seizure of 1,289 kilograms of cocaine, worth ₹13,000 crore, over the past three months.
Details of the Operation
- Recent Seizures: The latest seizure occurred during a raid on the chemical company on Sunday. Earlier in October, the Delhi Police Special Cell confiscated 562 kilograms of cocaine and 40 kilograms of hydroponic marijuana from a warehouse in Mahipalpur.
- Method of Operation: Investigators revealed that the drugs were smuggled into India via Goa, then refined in a factory owned by the Gujarat company. The refined drugs were transported to Uttar Pradesh and subsequently to Delhi.
- Arrests: So far, 12 individuals have been arrested, including businessman Tushar Goyal and his associates, who allegedly facilitated the transportation of the drugs.
Company Background
The Gujarat-based company is reportedly involved in refining raw cocaine. Established on September 23, 2016, it is registered as a non-government entity and focuses on manufacturing chemical products. Notably, it does not hold any manufacturing licenses for pharmaceutical products.
- Regulatory Issues: Government sources indicated that the company lacks authorization for its operations and is classified as dealing in “intermediate category of products.” Its most recent balance sheet was filed on March 31, 2023, but details of its latest Annual General Meeting are unavailable.
Investigation Findings
The drugs traced back to the company had origins in South America, transported through Panama to Dubai, and eventually reaching India around mid-September. A Dubai-based handler reportedly coordinated the smuggling operation, involving scouting of routes prior to shipping the drugs.
- Connection to Criminal Networks: The investigation has unveiled a long-standing relationship between Goyal and the Dubai handler, dating back nearly two decades, including connections formed in Tihar Jail.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, with both the staff and owners of the implicated company undergoing questioning. The operation reflects a significant effort by law enforcement to tackle drug trafficking networks operating within India.
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