International Manhunt Launched in UP's Massive Cough Syrup Racket
Investigators have escalated the multi-crore codeine-based cough syrup racket probe to the international level. Authorities confirmed on Wednesday that they have moved a Red Corner Notice proposal against the alleged mastermind, Shubham Jaiswal.
Interpol Alert in Process
A three-member Special Investigation Team constituted by the Uttar Pradesh government is leading the probe. This SIT confirmed that the Red Corner Notice proposal has been forwarded through the Central Bureau of Investigation to Interpol's National Central Bureau in Delhi. The request is currently under process.
Once Interpol issues the notice, law enforcement agencies across member countries will receive an alert. They will then work to locate and provisionally detain Jaiswal according to their local laws.
Dubai-Based Mastermind and His Methods
Investigators believe Shubham Jaiswal currently operates from Dubai. They allege he orchestrated the large-scale procurement and diversion of codeine phosphate-based cough syrups. These pharmaceutical products are frequently misused as narcotics.
The racket reportedly exploited regulatory loopholes through sophisticated methods. Authorities say the operation involved floating shell companies and forging transport and purchase documents. Consignments moved through multiple districts before eventually going overseas.
Officials added that the accused used layered financial transactions to launder proceeds. This complex web helped him evade scrutiny from authorities.
Wide-Ranging Investigation Continues
The SIT is examining the roles of numerous players in this elaborate scheme. Their scrutiny extends to distributors, transporters, and chemists across several districts. Investigators are simultaneously mapping financial trails and export channels.
Authorities anticipate further arrests and property attachments as the probe deepens. They will use relevant laws to pursue all individuals connected to the racket.
Massive Scale of the Operation
The numbers reveal the enormous scope of this illegal operation. To date, authorities have arrested 78 people in connection with the codeine syrup fraud and trafficking racket in Uttar Pradesh. An additional 225 individuals have been named in registered cases.
Police have filed 79 First Information Reports so far. They have conducted inspections on the premises of 134 firms suspected of involvement.
Crackdown That Uncovered the Scam
This massive scam came to light following a two-month statewide crackdown. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered this operation to curb illegal activities involving narcotic-category medicines. The crackdown targeted illegal storage, sale, distribution, and diversion of these controlled substances.
The investigation continues to uncover new dimensions of this sophisticated racket that operated across state and international boundaries.
