Who Are the Two Additional Key Players Arrested in Tripura's Drug Trade?
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Synopsis
In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, Tripura Police have arrested two key figures linked to the seizure of narcotics worth Rs 5.4 crore. This operation highlights ongoing issues with drug transport in the region and raises concerns among political parties, prompting statewide protests.
Key Takeaways
- Two key drug traffickers arrested in Tripura's ongoing crackdown.
- Seizure of 1,07,800 bottles of banned cough syrup.
- The total value of confiscated drugs estimated at Rs 5.4 crore.
- The operation involved multiple law enforcement agencies.
- Political parties are protesting against drug transport routes.
Agartala, Nov 3 (NationPress) The Crime Branch of the Tripura Police has apprehended two more significant figures linked to the recent confiscation of narcotics valued at Rs 5.4 crore. This seizure occurred from a goods train that arrived in the region from Delhi, according to officials on Monday.
A senior police representative stated that in relation to the acquisition of 1,07,800 bottles of the prohibited ESkuf cough syrup from a goods train at Jirania railway station on October 17, the Anti-Narcotics Wing of the Tripura Police Crime Branch (TPCB) detained Arun Kumar Ghosh (58) and Himanshu Jha alias Sonu (32) in Kolkata and Delhi, respectively.
The duo is set to be transported to Agartala on Monday and Tuesday for court proceedings.
Legal transit formalities are currently underway, as stated by the official.
This recent arrest brings the total number of major drug traffickers apprehended in connection with this significant drug seizure to three, all prominent traders in Tripura.
On October 30, TPCB captured Rajib Dasgupta (42), while extensive efforts continue to locate Ghosh and Jha. The official further mentioned that, following targeted intelligence, a collaborative team of security personnel conducted a search of the goods train at Jirania railway station, uncovering the banned ESkuf cough syrup—composed of Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride—substances frequently abused as narcotics in India, Bangladesh, and beyond.
The total estimated value of the confiscated drugs in the illicit market stands at approximately Rs 5.4 crore, according to the official.
This joint initiative, executed by the Tripura Police, Assam Rifles, Government Railway Police (GRP), Special Task Force (STF), and the Customs Department, is being hailed as a significant victory in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking within the state.
The goods train, which was transporting chicken feed, rice, and additional items, had arrived at the Jirania railway station from Delhi on October 16. The search operation commenced that evening and extended into the early hours of October 17.
The illegal cargo was discovered unclaimed and hidden in two wagons alongside other freight. The confiscated materials have been submitted to the Customs Department for further scrutiny and legal proceedings.
Authorities suspect that the illicit ESkuf cough syrup was intended for smuggling into Bangladesh via secretive routes.
Opposition parties such as the CPI-M and Congress have been orchestrating statewide protests against the transport of drugs via goods trains from Delhi.
The youth faction of the Opposition Congress initiated a mass letter campaign addressed to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday, objecting to the conveyance of narcotics in a Delhi-Tripura goods train. The Tripura Youth Congress aims to dispatch over 10,000 such letters soon.
Tripura Youth Congress President Neel Kamal Saha stated that this initiative commenced centrally from Agartala on Sunday, with plans for expansion across every block and locality within the state.
“We have commenced sending mass letters to the Railway Minister from Agartala. Similar correspondence will be dispatched from each block and community throughout the state in the upcoming days,” Saha informed the media.
In the letters, the Youth Congress accused certain leaders from the ruling BJP of colluding with unscrupulous traders and drug traffickers, attempting to convert Tripura into a drug-smuggling conduit, even utilizing railway services for such illicit acts.
Point of View
The ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Tripura is critical, as it reflects broader issues of governance and law enforcement in India. The recent arrests showcase the police's efforts to combat this growing menace, while the political response highlights public concern over safety and accountability. It is essential for all stakeholders to work together to address these challenges effectively.
NationPress
03/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What substances were seized during the operation?
The operation resulted in the seizure of 1,07,800 bottles of ESkuf cough syrup, which contains Codeine Phosphate and Triprolidine Hydrochloride, both of which are commonly misused as narcotics.
What is the estimated value of the seized drugs?
The estimated value of the confiscated drugs in the illegal market is around Rs 5.4 crore.
Who conducted the joint operation?
The joint operation was conducted by the Tripura Police, Assam Rifles, Government Railway Police (GRP), Special Task Force (STF), and the Customs Department.
What was the intended destination for the seized cough syrup?
Authorities suspect that the ESkuf cough syrup was intended to be smuggled into Bangladesh through illicit routes.
What actions are being taken by political parties in response?
Opposition parties, including the CPI-M and Congress, have organized statewide protests and launched campaigns against the transportation of drugs via goods trains.
