NCB Busts Inter-State Synthetic Drug Syndicate in Rajasthan and Maharashtra: A Major Step Toward Public Safety
A sophisticated inter-state synthetic drug syndicate was dismantled by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in cooperation with the police of Rajasthan and Maharashtra, dealing a severe blow to the illegal drug trade. This well-known operation, which took place on July 22–23, 2025, revealed covert labs in the districts of Barmer, Rajasthan, and Raigad, Maharashtra, revealing the startling resourcefulness of drug traffickers. Significant amounts of precursor chemicals and synthetic drugs, including mephedrone and ketamine, were seized as a result of the bust, demonstrating India’s steadfast dedication to fighting the drug problem and protecting the public. In addition to upending a significant criminal organization, this historic operation sends a clear message to those threatening the safety and security of the country.
Authorities discovered a covert Mephedrone lab concealed inside a buffalo barn in the village of Dholakia in Barmer, which marked the beginning of the operation. The facility was built to avoid detection in a hidden, remote area and was furnished with precursor chemicals such as ammonium chloride, toluene, bromine, and chloroform. Investigators located a significant syndicate member in Raigad, Maharashtra, after questioning two people who were arrested at the scene. This person, who was allegedly in charge of transporting equipment and chemicals, worked out of the now-closed M/s Rohan Chemicals factory in Mahad. 34 kg of powdered ketamine, 12 liters of liquid ketamine, and other laboratory supplies were found during a later raid, revealing the syndicate’s vast operations. The mastermind, a repeat offender who had previously been connected to cases by the NCB and Directorate of Revenue Intelligence,
.
This operation reflects the government’s proactive stance in safeguarding public health and security. The NCB’s Jodhpur unit, supported by coordinated intelligence from Barmer, Raigad, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai, demonstrated exemplary inter-agency collaboration. The seizure of such a large cache of synthetic drugs, often targeting vulnerable youth, is a critical step in curbing the growing trend of clandestine labs. Earlier this year, a similar bust in Sri Ganganagar resulted in the arrest of individuals with academic backgrounds in physics and chemistry, revealing the sophisticated expertise behind these operations. To counter this, the NCB has circulated “red flag indicators” to state police, enhancing their ability to detect such covert facilities.
This bust has ramifications that go beyond the quick arrests and seizures. India’s youth are seriously threatened by synthetic drugs like mephedrone and ketamine, which can lead to addiction and cause social unrest. Authorities have disrupted a supply chain that could have caused chaos across states by dismantling this syndicate. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate in this battle by the government’s zero-tolerance policy and public awareness campaigns like the NCB’s toll-free helpline (1933). This operation is in line with India’s overarching goal of a drug-free society, which is highlighted on June 26th, the International Day Against Drug Abuse.
The goal of the ongoing investigations is still to find more syndicate members and their supply chains. The unwavering efforts of India’s law enforcement to combat organized crime are demonstrated by this bust. In order to safeguard the country’s future from the drug problem and guarantee a safer, healthier India for everybody, it also urges constant watchfulness and community involvement.
