What is 'Drug Jihad' and How is it Affecting Bhopal?

Bhopal, July 23 (NationPress) In a significant crackdown that has sent shockwaves through Bhopal’s underground scene, the Crime Branch has revealed an extensive drug and exploitation network infiltrating the city’s vibrant social hubs.

The apprehension of Yasin Malik and his uncle Shahwar—both detained with MDMA and an unlicensed firearm following a high-speed pursuit—has uncovered a troubling connection of narcotics, coercion, and abuse.

Authorities seized 22 grams of MDMA, two vehicles, and a homemade gun from the pair.

However, the most alarming aspect emerged from the content found on Yasin’s mobile device, which contained over twenty videos allegedly showing drugged young women being sexually exploited and boys enduring brutal beatings.

Law enforcement officials confirmed the legitimacy of the footage, yet none of the victims have stepped forward, complicating the legal process.

Yasin, the son of notorious criminal Mukhtar Malik, already faces numerous charges across various police stations in the city. His arrest, along with that of Shahwar, is thought to be part of a broader supply chain targeting college students and gym enthusiasts.

MDMA was frequently marketed as a party enhancer or fitness aid, initially distributed freely to lure users. Once ensnared, victims were reportedly coerced into becoming couriers or recruiters—propelling what officials describe as a “chain-marketing” model of drug distribution.

In a concurrent operation, the Crime Branch apprehended Saifuddin and Ashu alias Shahrukh in Govindpura, seizing 15.14 grams of MD powder, a scooter, and a mobile phone valued at around Rs 3 lakh.

Saifuddin, who had been evading capture with a Rs 5,000 bounty on his head, was allegedly active in Bhopal’s nightlife, using parties to entice young women into drug use and subsequently manipulating them to expand the network.

The scope of the racket extended to gyms, clinics, and lounges, where MDMA was marketed under the pretense of weight-loss solutions or lucrative job offers.

Victims were lured in with promises of transformation and status, only to become ensnared in cycles of addiction and exploitation.

Authorities have launched a broader investigation into establishments suspected of aiding drug distribution.

Licenses may be revoked for venues found complicit, and numerous drug-addicted youths have already been referred to rehabilitation centers.

Officials have urged parents and community leaders to stay alert and proactive in protecting children from the allure of synthetic drugs.

As custodial remand continues for the accused, Bhopal’s Crime Branch is striving to dismantle the entire network—one that has turned aspirations for fitness and glamour into a pipeline of dependency and abuse.

The investigation is ongoing, with further arrests anticipated in the coming days.