In a significant crackdown on narcotics trade, the Ahmedabad police have apprehended a key suspect and confiscated a large consignment of synthetic drugs from the city's Vejalpur area. The operation led to the seizure of mephedrone (MD) valued at approximately Rs 50.43 lakh in the illegal market.
Major Drug Haul in Vejalpur
Acting on a specific tip-off, officials from the Local Crime Branch, Zone-7, swung into action. They intercepted a four-wheeler near the Gabansha Pir dargah on the busy Vejalpur–Juhapura road. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 37-year-old Tausif Ahmed Qadri.
Upon conducting a thorough search of his car, the police team made a startling discovery. They found and recovered 504 grams and 310 milligrams of mephedrone, a banned synthetic stimulant. The drug's street value was pegged at around Rs 50.43 lakh.
Evidence Points to Widespread Sale
The seizure was not limited to just the narcotic substance. Police also confiscated several items that clearly indicated the accused was engaged in the business of selling drugs. The recovered materials include:
- Two mobile phones worth Rs 25,000.
- Rs 500 in cash.
- Two electronic weighing scales.
- Packaging material like plastic spoons and zip-lock bags of various sizes.
The vehicle allegedly used for transporting the contraband was also impounded. The total estimated value of all seized items reached Rs 60.71 lakh.
Police sources revealed that Tausif Ahmed Qadri was actively involved in the retail and distribution of MD primarily in the western sectors of Ahmedabad. He reportedly used his personal car to make deliveries to his clients.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
Following the arrest, an official offence was registered against the accused at the Vejalpur police station. The case has been filed under the stringent Sections 8(c) and 22(c) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
The confiscated white powder will be sent to a forensic science laboratory for detailed chemical analysis. This test will confirm the exact composition and purity of the substance. Mephedrone, often called MD or 'Meow Meow', is a synthetic drug known for its euphoric effects but carries severe health risks. Its possession, sale, or transport invites harsh legal penalties.
The police have stated that the investigation is far from over. They will now probe deeper to uncover potential links to larger interdistrict or interstate drug networks that might be operating in and around Ahmedabad. This bust is seen as a crucial step in dismantling the local supply chain of illegal synthetic drugs.
