<img src="https://static.gujaratsamachar.com/content_image/content_image_afd95081-5edd-44aa-8f5b-8b0cecddf614.jpeg" data-filename="Threat (33).png" style="width: 100%;"> In a major breakthrough against international narcotics trafficking, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested key operatives involved in an elaborate conspiracy to illegally export chemical precursors used in the manufacture of the banned psychotropic drug Fentanyl to Mexico, Guatemala, and other countries.Acting on intelligence received in November 2024, ATS senior official uncovered a criminal network involving Athos Chemicals Pvt Ltd. and Agrat Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, both based in Surat. The investigation also identified Satishkumar Hareshbhai Sutariya, the principal partner of SR Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, along with associate Yuktakumari Ashishkumar Modi, as central figures in the smuggling racket.According to ATS officials, these companies were procuring large quantities of precursor chemicals—including N-Boc-4-piperidone and 4-piperidone, both of which are listed on the United Nations International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) Red List and monitored by the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN). These chemicals are essential in the production of Fentanyl, a highly addictive synthetic opioid banned in many countries.The group allegedly used forged end-user certificates and fake invoices to purchase the chemicals domestically. The consignments were then mislabelled—falsely declaring substances like Vitamin C—and misdeclared to evade scrutiny from customs and international narcotics enforcement agencies. These shipments were sent via air cargo to Mexico and Guatemala, with some consignments traced to the J&amp;C Import Factory in Guatemala, suspected to have links with the notorious Sinaloa Cartel.Further investigations revealed that the cartel had also acquired controlled substances 4-Anilino-N-phenethylpiperidine (ANPP) and N-Phenethyl-4-piperidinone (NPP), both officially listed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act since 27 February 2018. These were similarly purchased using fake identities and documents and then prepared for export.The ATS launched a coordinated operation that led to the arrest of the two accused Satish and Yuktakumari and the recovery of incriminating evidence.A case has been registered under multiple sections of the NDPS Act, including Sections 28, 29, and 30, along with relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The arrested individuals now face serious charges for their involvement in the production and illegal international trafficking of banned psychotropic substances.Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing to uncover further international connections and cartel involvement in what could be one of the largest fentanyl precursor smuggling operations uncovered in India.

In a major breakthrough against international narcotics trafficking, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested key operatives involved in an elaborate conspiracy to illegally export chemical precursors used in the manufacture of the banned psychotropic drug Fentanyl to Mexico, Guatemala, and other countries.

Gujarat ATS busts international drug syndicate, foils fentanyl precursor export to Mexico, Guatemala

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Gujarat ATS busts international drug syndicate, foils fentanyl precursor export to Mexico, Guatemala

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