📰 Gujarat ATS Busts Mephedrone Lab in UP; Key Accused Arrested, Drugs Seized

Lucknow/Ahmedabad: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the Gujarat Anti Terrorism Squad has busted an illegal mephedrone manufacturing lab in Uttar Pradesh and seized a significant quantity of the banned synthetic drug.

The कार्रवाई follows a crucial breakthrough on March 1, when ATS officials allegedly recovered 4.6 grams of mephedrone from an आरोपी identified as Shafaat Ahmed alias Chand Mohammad Istiyak Farooqui. He was immediately taken into custody, and his interrogation reportedly led investigators to a larger drug manufacturing and distribution network.

🔍 Lab Busted After Lead From Arrest

Based on inputs gathered during questioning, ATS teams traced the operations to a clandestine lab in Uttar Pradesh, where mephedrone—commonly known as “meow meow”—was being produced.

During the raid, officials seized:

• Large quantities of the synthetic drug

• Raw materials used in its production

• Equipment and chemicals required for manufacturing

⚠️ Expanding Drug Network Under Scanner

Investigators believe the racket may have links across multiple states, indicating a wider network involved in the production and supply of narcotics. The accused is suspected to be a key link in the chain, connecting suppliers, manufacturers, and distributors.

🚔 Further Investigation Underway

Authorities are now working to identify:

• Other members of the syndicate

• Supply routes and distribution channels

• Possible interstate and international links

More arrests are likely as the probe progresses.

📢 Crackdown on Synthetic Drugs

The operation highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb the spread of synthetic drugs, which have become increasingly popular and pose serious health risks, especially among youth.

Officials reiterated their commitment to intensifying surveillance and taking strict action against those involved in the illegal drug trade.

The case underscores the growing challenge posed by organised narcotics networks and the need for coordinated action across states to dismantle such operations.