DRI busts illegal Alprazolam unit in Andhra Pradesh, drugs worth Rs 24 crore seized

VISAKHAPATNAM: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a clandestine Alprazolam manufacturing facility at Atchuthapuram in Anakapalle district, seizing drugs worth around Rs 24 crore.Based on the specific intelligence, the DRI officials from Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada and Kakinada executed a swift and well-coordinated operation resulting in the apprehension of eight persons involved in illegal manufacturing and distribution of Alprazolam, which includes Master-mind, Chemists, Financiers and the Buyers at the same place.A total of 119.4 Kgs of Alprazolam in lumpy form, valued at approximately Rs 23.88 crore in the illicit market, along with 87.8 Kgs of in-process material were seized as per the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.

The Alprazolam was scheduled to be handed over to a few buyers at the same facility.Additionally, 3,600 litres in liquid form and 311.6 kgs in solid form of illegally procured raw materials, equipment (two reactors, one centrifuge and one drier) used for manufacturing Alprazolam and few incriminating documents were seized to aid further investigation.All the eight accused persons were arrested and remanded to judicial custody.

It is noteworthy that most of the arrested individuals have prior involvement in cases related to the clandestine manufacture of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and other criminal activities (murder, cyber-crimes and economic offences). Initial interrogation revealed that these individuals conspired to undertake this illegal activity, having formed their network during their time in jail, underscoring the deep-rooted and organized nature of the syndicate. The said Alprazolam was intended for transport to Telangana for adulterating Toddy. Further investigation in the case is in progress.