Repeat Offender Arrested: Man Sets Up Alprazolam Lab in Poultry Farm Months After Jail Release
Just four months after walking out of jail, a 39-year-old man allegedly returned to the same trade, setting up an illegal Alprazolam manufacturing unit in a poultry farm in Mahabubnagar district. He was arrested by the Telangana EAGLE Force on Sunday.
The suspect, identified as Malela Jaya Prakash Goud, had earlier been arrested in September 2025 for allegedly running a similar unit at Medha High School in Bowenpally. He was released from judicial custody on March 16 this year. Despite being required to report weekly to police, he allegedly violated the conditions and revived his network.
The Hyderabad Narcotics Police Station team raided the Lakshmi Narasimha Poultry Farm on the outskirts of Annasagar village in Boothpur mandal. Police seized 1.15 kg of Alprazolam worth approximately ₹20.30 lakh, and dismantled the manufacturing unit, recovering machinery and chemicals.
Three other individuals were also arrested: Chedurpalli Krishnaiah Goud (50), who had allegedly absconded in the earlier case and helped set up the new unit; Gaddagidi Balanjaneyulu (51); and Boya Narasimhulu (58), the owner of the poultry farm land.
Police said the narcotics team had placed Goud under surveillance following suspicion, which led investigators to the poultry farm. Investigators suspect that the Alprazolam manufactured at the unit was being supplied to local dealers for adulterating toddy, a traditional alcoholic drink. This practice potentially puts consumers in Mahabubnagar and neighbouring districts at risk.
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, but it is also abused for its sedative effects. The case highlights ongoing challenges in curbing illegal drug manufacturing in the region.
