Who is the Kingpin Arrested in Tripura's Major Drug Seizure?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, Tripura Police arrested a key figure in a major drug trafficking network, seizing illegal cough syrup worth Rs 5.4 crore. This arrest highlights the ongoing battle against narcotics in the Northeast, where authorities are ramping up efforts to dismantle smuggling operations. Stay tuned for more updates as investigations continue.
Key Takeaways
- Tripura Police arrested a key drug kingpin.
- Seized ESkuf cough syrup valued at Rs 5.4 crore.
- Ongoing investigations to capture absconding suspects.
- Drug trafficking poses serious challenges in the Northeast.
- Authorities are enhancing collaboration to tackle narcotics.
Agartala, Oct 31 (NationPress) The Tripura Police Crime Branch has apprehended one of the critical kingpins linked to the seizure of illicit drugs valued at Rs 5.4 crore, which were recovered from a goods train arriving here from Delhi, as reported by officials on Friday.
A senior police official indicated that in connection with the recovery of 1,07,800 bottles of the prohibited ESkuf cough syrup from a goods train at the Jirania railway station on October 17, the Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Tripura Police Crime Branch (TPCB) took Rajib Dasgupta (42) into custody on Thursday night.
Dasgupta is recognized as a significant player in a large-scale drug trafficking operation spanning the Northeastern states. “Another major drug dealer involved in this case is currently evading capture. TPCB agents are actively conducting operations to locate the fugitive. An extensive investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in this illicit transportation and supply chain,” the official stated in a media briefing.
According to the official, acting on credible intelligence, a coordinated team of security personnel executed a search of a goods train stationed at the Jirania railway station in West Tripura district, leading to the recovery of 1,07,800 bottles of the banned ESkuf cough syrup on October 17.
The ESkuf cough syrup, which is prohibited in India, comprises Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride, substances frequently misused as narcotics in India, neighboring Bangladesh, and other regions.
The approximate value of the confiscated drugs is estimated to be around Rs 5.4 crore in the illegal market, the official added.
In a monumental victory against drug trafficking, the Tripura Police, along with the Assam Rifles, Government Railway Police (GRP), Special Task Force (STF), and the Customs Department, collaboratively executed the operation and intercepted the consignment of illegal pharmaceutical substances, the official highlighted.
After the goods train, which was carrying chicken feed, rice, and other goods, arrived at the Jirania railway station from Delhi on October 16, the search operation commenced and persisted into the early hours of October 17. The seized contraband was found unclaimed and concealed within two wagons among other cargo.
The confiscated items have been handed over to the Customs Department for further inquiry and appropriate legal measures.
Authorities suspect that the banned ESkuf cough syrup was intended for smuggling into Bangladesh via covert routes.
The Assam Rifles, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, remains vigilant and dedicated to combatting drug trafficking in the Northeast and protecting the region from unlawful activities.
With this latest seizure, narcotics worth over Rs 136 crore have been confiscated in various operations in Tripura in under three weeks.
Tripura, which shares an 856-km long border with Bangladesh, is flanked on three sides by the neighboring nation, making the northeastern state susceptible to cross-border migration, crime, illicit trade, and smuggling activities.
Aside from certain stretches, most of the border has been fenced to deter smuggling, trans-border crimes, and illegal infiltration.
Another senior police official noted that drugs are often trafficked from Myanmar, transported through Mizoram and southern Assam, and brought into Tripura for further smuggling into the neighboring country of Bangladesh.
Point of View
It's imperative to recognize the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking. The recent arrest in Tripura underscores the need for continued vigilance and cooperation among various agencies to address this pervasive issue affecting our borders and communities.
NationPress
31/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What substances are contained in ESkuf cough syrup?
ESkuf cough syrup contains Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride, which are commonly misused as narcotics.
What is the estimated value of the seized drugs?
The estimated value of the confiscated drugs is approximately Rs 5.4 crore in the illegal market.
Where does Tripura share its borders?
Tripura shares an 856-km long border with Bangladesh, making it vulnerable to cross-border smuggling and crime.
What actions are being taken against drug trafficking?
Law enforcement agencies, including the Tripura Police and Assam Rifles, are conducting ongoing operations and investigations to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
How has the drug seizure impacted the region?
The recent seizure of narcotics worth over Rs 136 crore in less than three weeks reflects the escalating efforts to combat drug trafficking in the Northeast.
