Second Illegal Drug Lab Busted in Bhopal Amidst Rising Narcotics Concerns

Authorities have successfully shut down a second illegal drug manufacturing facility in Bhopal within the past year, signaling an increase in the city’s involvement in synthetic drug production. The most recent raid, conducted on Monday, targeted a lab in Jagdishpur, Islam Nagar, and was spearheaded by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) under “Operation Crystal Break.” The operation, aided by the Surat and Mumbai Police, resulted in the seizure of 61.2 kg of Mephedrone (MD) and 541.53 kg of precursor chemicals, with a combined estimated value of nearly ₹162 crore. Seven individuals were taken into custody on suspicion of being associated with a foreign drug kingpin. The discovery of this lab follows the earlier bust of another drug factory situated in the Bagroda Industrial Area near Katara Hills in Bhopal. The initial investigation, involving the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad and the Narcotics Control Bureau in Delhi, revealed a syndicate producing 907 kg of Mephedrone, valued at over ₹1,800 crore. This group had operated through a front company, a fertilizer business, concealing a sophisticated drug manufacturing operation from local authorities. Further investigations have revealed connections to similar cartels operating in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra. Authorities in Mumbai apprehended two supply handlers and a hawala operator, effectively dismantling the financial network of the syndicate. Furthermore, a Nigerian national and a Thai woman were recently arrested in connection to an MDMA network headed by Shahwar Ahmed and Yasin Ahmed. These developments highlight Bhopal’s transformation into a major center for drug production, moving beyond its previous role as a transit point.