In a major crackdown on organised drug trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) dismantled a clandestine mobile mephedrone manufacturing laboratory operating deep within the Sahyadri ranges under an intelligence-led operation codenamed “Operation Sahyadri Checkmate.” The operation resulted in the seizure of nearly 22 kg of mephedrone in different forms, along with large quantities of raw material, and the arrest of five individuals, including repeat offenders.
Mobile Lab Camouflaged as Poultry Farm to Evade Detection
Acting on developed intelligence, DRI officers launched sustained surveillance which led to the identification of a camouflaged drug manufacturing unit operating under the guise of a poultry farm. The laboratory was designed to remain mobile, frequently shifting locations to avoid detection by law enforcement agencies.
A coordinated operation conducted on 24 January 2026 uncovered a makeshift, fully operational clandestine lab equipped with apparatus capable of manufacturing mephedrone, a prohibited substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Nearly 22 kg of Mephedrone Seized in Multiple Forms
During the raid, DRI officers seized a total of 21.912 kg of mephedrone, found in various forms:
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11.848 kg in liquid form
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9.326 kg in semi-liquid form
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738 grams in crystalline form
In addition, officers also recovered 71.5 kg of raw material, which was capable of producing approximately 15 kg of finished NDPS substance.
The estimated illicit market value of the seized narcotics is around ₹55 crore, indicating the scale and seriousness of the illegal operation.
Five Accused Arrested, Including Repeat Offenders
The DRI apprehended three key individuals during the initial operation:
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The ‘cook’ engaged in manufacturing the drug
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The financer-consigner of the operation
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The owner of the poultry farm, where the lab was operating
Investigations revealed that the first batch of finished contraband had been concealed at the residence of the poultry farm owner for safekeeping.
In a subsequent follow-up operation, DRI officers conducted late-night surveillance near an old octroi toll naka in a dense forested area and apprehended two more individuals who were en route to collect the final consignment.
Significantly, four out of the five arrested individuals are repeat offenders, having previously been booked under the NDPS Act or prosecuted under serious legislations such as the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA), 1999.
DRI’s Role in Disrupting Organised Drug Networks
The successful operation highlights the critical role played by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence in disrupting organised drug trafficking networks. Such networks pose serious threats to:
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Public health
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Law and order
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Youth safety
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Economic stability
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National security
By dismantling sophisticated and mobile drug manufacturing units, DRI continues to safeguard society against the growing menace of narcotics.
Conclusion
Operation Sahyadri Checkmate stands as a significant blow to organised narcotics syndicates operating in remote regions. The seizure of high-value contraband, recovery of manufacturing infrastructure, and arrest of repeat offenders demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led enforcement. The operation reinforces the government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking and protecting communities from the devastating impact of narcotics.
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Source: PIB
