In a significant drug bust, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Gujarat’s Crime Branch seized 256.86 grams of mephedrone (MD drugs), valued at approximately Rs25 lakh, and arrested five individuals. The operation took place during a late-night raid on Tuesday at Elephanta Society near a Jain temple in Naranpura. The drugs were seized from the residence of Jignesh Pandya, a key player in the trafficking network.
According to SOG Deputy Commissioner Jayrajsinh Vala, the operation was launched after receiving intel about Mustakim Sheikh, a resident of Fatehwadi, who was allegedly involved in drug peddling. Sheikh had reportedly been sourcing drugs from Mohammad Khan, a resident of Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh, and storing them at Pandya’s apartment in Naranpura. Acting on this crucial information, the SOG raided the apartment and arrested Mohammad Khan, Mustakim Sheikh, Dhruv Patel, Mohammad Sheikh, and Abrar Khan Pathan.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Jignesh Pandya, the apartment owner, was also implicated in the drug trade. Pandya reportedly provided his residence as a meeting point for drug transactions. The SOG is continuing its investigation into the case to dismantle the larger network.
The seizure is part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking in Gujarat. Over the past five years, authorities have confiscated a staggering 93,691 kilograms of drugs, 2,229 liters of liquid drugs, and 73,163 drug pills and injections in the state. This highlights the ongoing challenge faced by Gujarat, often referred to as a “dry state,” in combating illegal drug trade and abuse.
The authorities are focusing on disrupting drug trafficking operations and ensuring that those