Did Punjab Police Uncover an Illegal Pharma Opioid Supply Network?
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Synopsis
In a stunning operation, the Punjab Police has revealed a vast illegal tramadol supply chain originating from a minor seizure in Amritsar. This investigation has led to multiple arrests and the discovery of significant quantities of illicit drugs. Stay tuned for more details on this unfolding story.
Key Takeaways
- Major drug bust by Punjab Police highlights the ongoing battle against illegal substances.
- Seizures included over 74,000 tramadol tablets and significant amounts of raw materials.
- Investigation led to multiple arrests, showcasing the scale of the operation.
- Pharmaceutical units involved in illegal activities have been sealed.
- Continued vigilance is essential for public safety in the pharmaceutical sector.
Chandigarh, July 31 (NationPress) — In a significant crackdown on an illegal pharmaceutical opioid distribution network, the Amritsar Police Commissionerate has discovered a tramadol supply operation that began with a modest recovery of just 35 tablets in Amritsar, leading back to a manufacturing facility in Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
This breakthrough occurred after investigations into the initial recovery of 35 tramadol tablets and the subsequent arrest of local dealer Ravinder Singh, known as Nikka, as part of a first information report (FIR) filed in Amritsar.
While probing the connections, police expanded the recovery to an astonishing 74,465 tramadol tablets, 50 alprazolam tablets, and 325 kg of tramadol raw material in just 15 days.
DGP Gaurav Yadav reported that six individuals have been arrested, including chemists, distributors, and the plant manager of Lucent Biotech Ltd.
The detainees include Hari Kishore, the Plant Manager at Lucent Biotech in Roorkee, and Bikram, a co-owner of Recall Lifesciences in Roorkee.
Additionally, others apprehended are Manish Kumar Arora, Pooran Jatav, and Kulwinder Singh, also known as Kinda, a medical store owner from Kathunangal.
The DGP mentioned that the confiscated Trakemi 100 tramadol strips marked “government supply only -- not for sale” suggest illegal diversion of medical stock.
Key pharmaceutical establishments found in violation of regulations have been sealed, and their records are under examination, with further investigations ongoing.
Expanding on the details, Commissioner of Police (Amritsar) Gurpreet Singh Bhullar stated that a collaborative effort by Amritsar Police and drug inspectors led to raids on pharmaceutical units in Roorkee, resulting in the seizure of 4,130 unlabelled tramadol tablets along with 325 kg of unregistered raw material.
This adds to the prior recovery of 70,335 tablets and Rs 7.69 lakh in drug money, he noted.
During the interrogation, Hari Kishore confessed to printing ‘government supply only’ on the strips at the manufacturing plant.
He also admitted that the tramadol tablets intended for a legitimate firm were sold unlawfully to Recall Lifesciences in Roorkee.
Point of View
It is imperative to commend the efforts of the Punjab Police in their battle against illegal drug trafficking. This operation underscores the need for continued vigilance and enforcement in the pharmaceutical sector, ensuring public safety and health.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the investigation into the tramadol supply network?
The investigation was initiated following the recovery of 35 tramadol tablets and the arrest of a local peddler in Amritsar.
How many individuals have been arrested in connection with this case?
Six individuals, including chemists and distributors, have been arrested as part of the operation.
Where was the tramadol manufacturing unit located?
The tramadol manufacturing unit was located in Haridwar, Uttarakhand.
What illegal activities were uncovered during the raids?
Authorities discovered illegal stock diversion and substantial quantities of unregistered tramadol tablets and raw material.
What measures are being taken against the violating pharmaceutical units?
Pharmaceutical units found violating regulations have been sealed, and their records are currently under scrutiny.
