DRI Uncovers Rs 47 Crore Alprazolam Manufacturing Operation in Andhra Pradesh
Synopsis
In a significant crackdown, the DRI has uncovered a clandestine Alprazolam production facility in Andhra Pradesh, leading to the arrest of two key suspects. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against narcotics in India.
Key Takeaways
The DRI seized 237 kg of Alprazolam worth Rs 47 crore .
Operation codenamed 'Operation White Hammer'.
Over 800 kg of raw materials and 2,860 litres of chemicals were also recovered.
The operation indicates a large-scale drug manufacturing facility.
Two suspects have been arrested, and investigations are ongoing.
New Delhi, March 13 (NationPress) The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has uncovered an illicit operation dedicated to the manufacture of Alprazolam, a psychotropic substance governed by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, located in the Kondapalli Industrial Development Area of NTR district, Andhra Pradesh, as reported by the Finance Ministry on Friday.
Investigations at the site resulted in the confiscation of 237 kg of Alprazolam, estimated to hold a market value of approximately Rs 47 crore, according to the ministry's statement.
This intelligence-led initiative, dubbed “Operation White Hammer”, revealed a fully operational industrial facility that was allegedly producing Alprazolam while disguising itself as a chemical manufacturing unit.
The ministry further reported that officials found over 800 kg of essential raw materials, 2,860 litres of various chemicals, and industrial-grade equipment such as reactors, driers, and a centrifuge, indicating a sophisticated and large-scale clandestine drug production operation.
Preliminary investigations pointed to a chemist with over 20 years of expertise in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry as the alleged mastermind, collaborating with an accomplice tasked with sourcing raw materials and managing distribution channels in Hyderabad.
Officials disclosed that the suspects had leased the factory space to facilitate the illegal production of Alprazolam.
Both alleged perpetrators have been taken into custody, and further inquiries are ongoing.
During the current fiscal year, the DRI has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing establishments as a result of intelligence-driven operations.
“In this financial year, the DRI has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing units, reaffirming its unwavering dedication to the Government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, aimed at protecting society and individuals from the threat of narcotic and psychotropic substances,” they added.
In a related incident earlier in February, a joint operation by the Assam Rifles and the DRI resulted in the seizure of highly addictive methamphetamine tablets valued at over Rs 45 crore and the arrest of a drug dealer in Tripura.
Point of View
It underscores the government's commitment to addressing substance abuse and protecting the public.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What substance was being illegally manufactured?
The substance being illegally manufactured was Alprazolam, a psychotropic drug regulated under the NDPS Act.
Where was the illegal facility located?
The illegal facility was located in the Kondapalli Industrial Development Area of NTR district in Andhra Pradesh.
What was the estimated market value of the seized Alprazolam?
The estimated market value of the seized Alprazolam was around Rs 47 crore.
How many drug manufacturing units has the DRI dismantled this fiscal year?
The DRI has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing units during the current fiscal year.
What operation was conducted by the DRI?
The operation conducted by the DRI was codenamed 'Operation White Hammer'.
