Bhopal/New Delhi: In a coordinated crackdown named “Operation Crystal Break”, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) unearthed a clandestine Mephedrone manufacturing facility in Bhopal, seizing 61.2 kg of the illicit drug valued at ₹92 crore. The multi-state operation, conducted with the support of Surat and Mumbai police, led to the apprehension of seven syndicate operatives and exposed an elaborate criminal network spanning four states.
Details of the Operation
Acting on precise intelligence, DRI officials raided a secluded, heavily concealed factory in Gram-Jagdishpur (Islamnagar), Huzur-Tehsil, District Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh on 16 August 2025. The raid resulted in the recovery of 61.2 kg of liquid Mephedrone, a psychotropic substance listed under the NDPS Act, 1985. Authorities also seized:
-
541.53 kg of raw materials:
Including Methylene Dichloride, Acetone, Monomethylamine (MMA), Hydrochloric Acid (HCL), and 2-Bromo. -
Complete set of processing equipment
Two individuals, including the chemist actively producing the drug, were nabbed on site.
Multi-State Crackdown & Arrests
Subsequent raids conducted in Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh led to:
-
Apprehension of a key cartel member at Basti, Uttar Pradesh, overseeing raw material supply from Bhiwandi (Mumbai) to Bhopal.
-
Two suppliers of chemicals detained in Mumbai, along with a transporter responsible for moving illicit materials.
-
Hawala channel financier arrested in Surat; preliminary probe revealed funds were routed from Surat and Mumbai to Bhopal via illegal means.
All seven arrested confessed their roles in the operation, admitting to acting under instructions from an overseas operator allegedly heading the India Mephedrone network.
The Menace of Mephedrone
Mephedrone, also known as “meow meow” or “MD”, is a dangerous psychotropic substance with effects akin to cocaine and amphetamines. Its abuse poses serious risks to individual health and the broader society.
The NDPS Act criminalizes its manufacture, possession, and distribution.
DRI’s Ongoing Anti-Narcotics Mission
This bust marks the sixth such Mephedrone factory dismantled by DRI in the past year. The agency has repeatedly demonstrated its resolve to break the backbone of illicit drug production in India, not only by shutting down narcotics factories but by relentlessly pursuing masterminds and international syndicate leaders.
Conclusion
The success of “Operation Crystal Break” highlights the DRI’s unwavering commitment to upholding India’s anti-narcotics laws and safeguarding society against psychotropic substances. The interagency collaboration, detailed investigations, and swift action send a strong warning to criminal entities operating in India.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
