New Delhi, Oct 2 (NationPress) In a significant festive season operation, the Delhi Police Crime Branch has dismantled three illegal production facilities involved in the manufacture of adulterated desi ghee in North-East Delhi, confiscating more than 1,600 kg of counterfeit ghee, as reported by the Delhi Police on Thursday.

Based on credible intelligence, police teams executed coordinated raids in Shiv Vihar, Karawal Nagar, and Mustafabad, resulting in the seizure of 1,625 kg of fake ghee and the arrest of six individuals.

This operation comes at a time of heightened demand for ghee during the festive seasons of Dussehra and Diwali, where illicit operators are taking advantage of the market by distributing counterfeit products.

As stated by the police, the initiative was undertaken to safeguard consumers from potential health risks and uphold food safety regulations.

The first raid at Shiv Vihar resulted in the apprehension of Safiq (30), with 520 kg of adulterated ghee seized, alongside various chemicals and manufacturing materials.

In the second operation at Phase-7, Shiv Vihar, four suspects - Yusuf Malik (50), his son Mehboob (22), Shakir, and Sharukh (both from Ghaziabad) - were taken into custody. The police recovered 440 kg of counterfeit ghee, along with chemicals, stoves, gas cylinders, and packaging materials.

The final raid at Old Mustafabad led to the arrest of Zamaluddin (40) with 665 kg of fake ghee and associated equipment.

During interrogations, the suspects revealed that they sourced Dalda (vanaspati ghee) and inexpensive refined oils in bulk, which were then heated and mixed to resemble pure desi ghee. To replicate the authentic taste, chemical flavorings, synthetic colors, and potentially harmful substances were introduced,” the Delhi Police disclosed in their statement.

“The final product was then packaged in tins and packets mimicking legitimate brands and distributed to dairies, retailers, and distributors, particularly during the festive period. This crude and hazardous method not only misled consumers but also posed significant health risks,” they added.

While the production cost for one tin was approximately Rs 1,300–1,400, the accused sold them in the market for around Rs 3,500-4,000, resulting in substantial profits.

Yusuf Malik, identified as the mastermind, is a repeat offender who had previously been arrested in a similar case. His son Mehboob and accomplices Shakir and Sharukh were responsible for distribution, while Safiq and Zamaluddin managed separate operations.

“The confiscation of 1,625 kg of counterfeit desi ghee prior to the festive season has averted a considerable public health threat. The Delhi Police is dedicated to combating adulteration syndicates that jeopardize the health and safety of the citizens,” stated DCP Vikram Singh.

An FIR has been filed under relevant sections of the BNS and the Food Safety and Standards Act. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the broader supply chain.