After Kheda and Vadodara, Bhavnagar also joined the toxic syrup melee, where a total of 579 bottles were recovered by a special operation group (SOG).

Codeine phosphate, a drug to cure cough and pain, has now become a common source of intoxication in the dry state of Gujarat. 

Acting on a tip, the SOG, along with Bhavnagar food and drug inspection official GN Thummar, initiated a raid at the AAI Medical Agency of Dilip Dholetar in Maldhari Society in Bhavnagar.

A total of 579 bottles of 100 ml were recovered, which the dealer had been selling at ₹150 per bottle.

The drug inspector sealed the agency, and legal proceedings are underway.

Recently, the Ahmedabad police seized 590 bottles of toxic syrup, with same- codeine phosphate from a rickshaw at Vataman Chokdi. Two individuals were arrested, leading to the investigation in Vadodara.

Notably, at least seven people died after consuming an ayurvedic toxic syrup in Kheda named ‘Kalmeghasav - Asava Arishta’ syrup in Dec 2023. 

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