Tamil film producer alleged mastermind of Rs 2,000-crore drug ring

PTC News Desk: A Tamil film producer has been identified as the alleged mastermind behind an expansive international drug trafficking network, currently evading authorities.

In a concerted effort between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Delhi Police's Special Cell, three individuals were apprehended in Delhi, and a significant quantity of precursor chemicals used in narcotics production was confiscated. This joint operation aimed to dismantle an elaborate drug trafficking syndicate spanning across India, New Zealand, Australia, and Malaysia, with the Tamil film producer implicated as the central figure, presently at large.

The seized pseudoephedrine, a precursor essential in methamphetamine synthesis, underscores the severity of the operation. Despite its legitimate uses, pseudoephedrine is classified as a controlled substance in India due to its potential for illicit drug production. Trafficking and possession of such substances carry severe penalties under the NDPS Act, 1985.

The modus operandi involved concealing drugs within food products like health mix powder and desiccated coconut, transported via air and sea cargo. Cooperation with international authorities in New Zealand and Australia revealed a lucrative market for pseudoephedrine, fetching approximately Rs 1.5 crore per kilogram.

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Intelligence from the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) traced the origins of the consignments to Delhi, prompting a coordinated effort between the Delhi Police and NCB to dismantle the network. Following extensive surveillance, a raid on a godown in West Delhi led to the seizure of 50 kg of pseudoephedrine and the arrest of three suspects.

Interrogations uncovered a staggering history of drug shipments over three years, totaling 45 consignments weighing approximately 3,500 kg of pseudoephedrine, valued at over Rs 2,000 crore in the international market.

The elusive Tamil film producer, identified as the linchpin of the operation, remains at large, prompting ongoing efforts to apprehend him and ascertain the source of the pseudoephedrine.

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(Inputs from agencies)