What Latest Crackdown Did the ED Conduct on Inter-State Drug Trafficking?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- ED conducts major raids across six states.
- Focus on psychotropic substances like Tramadol and Alprazolam.
- Evidence seized crucial for tracing financial links.
- Investigation initiated by an FIR from Punjab Police.
- Further actions expected as probe intensifies.
New Delhi, June 18 (NationPress) In a significant raid against an inter-state drug trafficking syndicate, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), Jalandhar, executed search operations at 16 locations across six states: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra, according to an official statement released on Wednesday.
The operations took place on Tuesday as part of an ongoing investigation into money laundering linked to the unlawful distribution of psychotropic and intoxicating substances such as Tramadol and Alprazolam.
This operation focused on both office and residential sites tied to various pharmaceutical companies and individuals, including M/s Biogenetic Drugs Pvt Ltd, M/s CB Healthcare, M/s Smilax Pharmachem Drug Industries, M/s Aster Pharma, M/s Soul Health Care (I) Pvt Ltd, Alex Paliwal, and other pertinent individuals.
During the raids, a range of incriminating documents, digital devices such as mobile phones and laptops, and other critical evidence were seized. These findings are crucial for tracing the financial links and understanding the operational methods of those involved.
The agency is actively working to pinpoint all beneficiaries and trace the financial pathways in order to dismantle the financial foundation of the drug network. The ED initiated its investigation following an FIR filed by the Punjab Police under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Initial inquiries indicate that middlemen were acquiring significant amounts of psychotropic tablets from pharmaceutical manufacturers and redirecting them for illegal sale in the black market at inflated prices, utilizing a well-organized network of drug dealers.
Further investigation is ongoing, with additional seizures and arrests anticipated as the agency intensifies its examination of the interstate drug cartel.