NCB Cracks Down on International Drug Ring: 11 kg Ephedrine Seized, Chennai Man Arrested
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has dismantled an international drug trafficking syndicate with the seizure of nearly 11 kilograms of Ephedrine valued at approximately Rs 5 crore. The operation led to the arrest of a Chennai-based operative, identified as S. Hameed, who is accused of concealing the synthetic drug in floor mats, bedsheets, and photo frames destined for New Zealand.
Ephedrine is a controlled pharmaceutical substance with limited medical use, primarily in treating low blood pressure during anaesthesia. However, it is frequently diverted for the illicit manufacture of methamphetamine, a highly addictive and dangerous drug.
According to the NCB, acting on specific intelligence, its Mumbai zonal unit intercepted two international courier parcels on July 21 that had been declared as floor mats. A detailed examination revealed 7 kg of Ephedrine concealed between layers of the mats and cloth rolls. Officials also found that the shipping documents attached to the parcels were forged.
Further investigation led the NCB to trace the consignments to Hameed, who was arrested from Chennai's Triplicane area. He has been brought to Mumbai for further interrogation and investigation into the syndicate's network.
This seizure underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking, which poses a serious threat to public health and security. The NCB continues to work with international counterparts to disrupt such illicit supply chains.
