New Delhi, Mar 14: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has dismantled an illegal synthetic drug manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh and seized large quantities of psychotropic substances and chemicals during a crackdown carried out under Operation “White Hammer.”
Officials said the operation was conducted on March 11 and 12 at an industrial facility located in the Kondapalli Industrial Development Area in NTR district of Andhra Pradesh, where a clandestine factory was producing Alprazolam, a psychotropic substance regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
Drugs and chemicals seized
During the searches, DRI officials seized 237 kilograms of Alprazolam, estimated to be worth ₹47 crore in the illicit market. In addition, investigators recovered over 800 kilograms of raw materials and 2,860 litres of various chemicals used in drug production.
Authorities also found industrial-scale equipment, including chemical reactors, driers and a centrifuge, indicating the presence of a large-scale organised manufacturing facility disguised as a chemical production unit.
Two masterminds arrested
Preliminary investigations revealed that the operation was allegedly run by a chemist with more than 20 years of experience in the chemical and pharmaceutical sector, who was working with an associate responsible for sourcing raw materials and arranging distribution in Hyderabad.
Officials said the accused had rented the factory premises to secretly manufacture Alprazolam. Both individuals identified as key operators in the operation have been arrested.
Part of wider anti-drug crackdown
According to the DRI, the latest action is part of a broader campaign to curb illegal drug manufacturing and trafficking.
Officials said that during the current financial year, the agency has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing units through intelligence-led operations.
The enforcement drive is part of the government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, which aims to combat drug abuse and trafficking across the country. Authorities said the crackdown underscores the government’s commitment to protecting society from the threat posed by narcotic and psychotropic substances.
