Varanasi Police Complete Forfeiture of Rs 3.5 Crore Properties in Major Drug Racket
In a significant crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, the Chandauli police in Varanasi have finalized the legal procedures for the forfeiture of properties valued at Rs 3.5 crore, linked to accused Swapnil Keshri in a codeine syrup racket. The action, carried out on Sunday, marks a decisive step in combating narcotics-related crimes in the region.
Joint Operation Leads to Seizure of Six Immovable Assets
Arun Kumar Singh, the Circle Officer of Pt Deen Dayal Padhyaya Nagar in Chandauli, confirmed that a joint team comprising the crime branch and Mughalsarai police successfully completed the necessary legal formalities. This operation targeted six immovable properties owned by Keshri and his family members, located across Bechupur, Chandhasi, and Harishankarpur.
The properties forfeited include:
- A plot in Chandhasi worth Rs 1.5 crore
- A house in Bechupur valued at Rs 95 lakh
- Another property in Bechupur worth Rs 25 lakh
- Two plots in Chandhasi priced at Rs 30 lakh and Rs 20 lakh
- An additional plot in Harishankarpur worth Rs 30 lakh
Legal Framework and Accused's Background
Swapnil Keshri, a resident of Krishna Nagar Colony in Chandhasi, is currently lodged in jail following the registration of cases against him. These cases, filed under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, involve allegations of illegal trafficking in codeine syrup.
The forfeiture of properties has been executed under Section 68F of the NDPS Act, which empowers authorities to seize assets acquired through proceeds of drug-related crimes. This legal provision aims to dismantle the financial networks supporting such illicit activities.
Ongoing Investigations and Broader Implications
Keshri faces a total of four cases, with two registered in Mughalsarai, and one each in Varanasi and Sonbhadra. The forfeiture of these high-value properties underscores the police's commitment to targeting the economic foundations of drug rackets, sending a strong message against narcotics trafficking in Uttar Pradesh.
This development highlights the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between different police units in tackling organized crime. It also reflects the stringent enforcement of anti-drug laws, which are crucial for maintaining public health and safety in the region.
