Pune Police Seize Mephedrone
Pune Police have arrested a drug smuggling syndicate, seizing approximately 1,800 kilograms of mephedrone valued at Rs 3,700 crore in the global market.
Acting on intelligence obtained from the interrogation of Pune-based suspect Haider Noor Shaikh, law enforcement officers inspected a parked tempo in the Vishrantwadi area, recovering 340 kg of raw materials, including chemicals used in mephedrone production. Samples of the seized chemicals have been dispatched for forensic analysis. During court proceedings, it was disclosed that proceeds from mephedrone sales were funnelled to Delhi through "hawala" channels, prompting Assistant Public Prosecutor Neelam Yadav Ithape to emphasize the necessity of further financial scrutiny. Authorities asserted that the syndicate operated in a highly organized manner, with bank account investigations revealing links to an international drug cartel. Raids were conducted at a chemical manufacturing facility in Daund taluka, two warehouses in Vishrantwadi, Pune, and various locations in the Sangli district, along with premises in the South Extension of Delhi. British citizen of Indian descent Sundip Dhunay is the prime suspect, alleged to be the mastermind behind the drug manufacturing operation.
The apprehended individuals include Vaibhav alias Pintya Bharat Mane (40, residing in Khadiche Maidan, Somwar Peth), Ajay Amarnath Karosiya (35), and Haider Sheikh (residing in Vishrantwadi). Senior police inspector Shabbir Syed, Ajay Waghmare, Rajendra Landge, Anita Hivarkar, Vinayak Gaikwad, Assistant Inspector Babar Gaikwad, Police Sub Inspector Ramesh Tapkir, Shelke, Police Constables Vitthal Salukhe, Abhinav Ladkat, Data Sonawane, Nilesh Sable, and Rahul Makhare spearheaded the operation.
Police commissioner Amitesh Kumar said, Our mission is 'Drug-Free Pune', and this campaign will now be implemented. It requires the participation of citizens. A WhatsApp number service is available if anyone wishes to provide information about drug smuggling and sales. Citizens can provide information through messaging or calling; if Citizens do, their identities will remain protected.
