Mumbai Police, in collaboration with Mysuru police, have dismantled a major interstate drug racket and seized over 187 kilograms of mephedrone (MD) worth approximately Rs 382 crore from a factory in Mysuru, Karnataka. Eight individuals were arrested in connection with the racket from Mumbai, Gujarat, and Mysuru.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 10) Datta Nalawade stated that the gang was actively operating in Mumbai and its outskirts. Among the eight accused, three have prior involvement in similar narcotics cases, with one facing sixteen NDPS-related cases including physical assault. Police suspect that more individuals may be linked to the racket.
The case was first registered by Sakinaka Police on April 24, when Sadiq Shaikh (27), a Bandra West resident, was arrested for possessing 52 grams of MD intended for sale. Subsequent interrogation revealed three additional accomplices, leading to arrests from Mumbai, Gujarat, and Mysuru.
During further investigation, Siraj Panjwani (28) of Mira Road and Salim Shaikh alias Slim Langda (45) of Bandra Reclamation were arrested. Salim Shaikh disclosed the location of the illegal factory in Mysuru.
On July 26, a Sakinaka police team led by investigating officer Dayanand Walave raided the factory near Belavatha, Ring Road, Mysuru. The facility, operating out of a blue cement shed, had a front garage and stall, with the drug production occurring behind it. Police seized ovens, heaters, various chemicals, and other equipment along with 192.53 kg of MD, valued at Rs 390 crore internationally.
Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar described the incident as a “disturbing development” in Mysuru, traditionally a quiet city, and confirmed that strict measures are being taken while investigations continue.
