Gujarat ATS, Rajasthan SOG bust illicit psychotropic drug unit in Bhiwadi, 22 kg seized

The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in a joint operation with the Rajasthan Special Operation Group (SOG) and local police, busted an illicit drug manufacturing unit in Rajasthan’s Bhiwadi industrial belt on December 28, leading to the seizure of 22 kg of illegally manufactured psychotropic substances, officials said on Monday

The raid was conducted at APL Pharma, located at a plot in the RIICO industrial area, Kaharani, Bhiwadi, falling under the jurisdiction of the Bhiwadi Phase-3 (UIT) Sector-3 police station in Khairthal-Tijara district. The operation followed specific intelligence inputs indicating illegal manufacture of banned psychotropic drugs at the premises.

According to the ATS, three accused Anshul Anilkumar Shastri, Akhilesh Kumar Parasnath Maurya, and Krishna Kumar Shrei Yadav, were apprehended from the spot. In addition, three labourers working at the facility were detained for questioning to ascertain their role and level of involvement in the illegal activity.

During the search, teams recovered a total of 22 kg of illicitly manufactured psychotropic substances. Officials also seized precursor chemicals used for manufacturing Alprazolam, along with semi-processed and intermediate substances, indicating that the unit was actively engaged in different stages of production.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the facility was being used to manufacture psychotropic drugs without requisite licences or approvals, in violation of provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Machinery, raw materials and other equipment suspected to have been used in the illegal operation were also found at the site, officials added.

Sources said the joint action was part of a wider crackdown on organised drug manufacturing and supply networks operating across state borders. “The seizure of precursor chemicals and intermediate products points to a systematic operation rather than isolated activity,” an official involved in the probe said.

The accused are expected to be produced before a competent court, and further investigation is underway to trace the supply chain of raw materials, identify intended distribution networks, and establish possible links with larger drug syndicates operating in other states.

Accused arrested:

1. Anshul Anilkumar Shastri

2. Akhilesh Kumar Parasnath Maurya

3. Krishna Kumar Shrei Yadav

Others detained: three labourers/workers