Amit Shah Announces Major Drug Seizure: 182 Crore Worth of Captagon Tablets

On Saturday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah revealed that the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has successfully seized Captagon tablets valued at ₹182 crores, marking a significant milestone in drug enforcement. Shah referred to these tablets as a "jihadist drug" and announced the arrest of a foreign national involved in this operation, dubbed 'Operation Ragepill'. The drugs were intercepted while being transported to West Asia, with seizures occurring at Mundra Port and Neb Sarai in Delhi. The Syrian national had concealed the tablets within tea leaf containers. According to sources familiar with the case, the shipment was declared as wool at Mundra Port.

In his remarks on social media, the Home Minister emphasized the Modi government's dedication to achieving a 'Drug-Free India'. He expressed pride in the successful seizure of Captagon, which is often referred to as a 'jihadist narcotic', through 'Operation Ragepill'. The interception of this drug consignment bound for the Middle East and the arrest of a foreign national exemplify the government's zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics. Shah reiterated the commitment to combat every gram of drugs entering India or being trafficked through the country. He commended the brave and vigilant efforts of the NCB personnel.

Captagon is a highly addictive synthetic stimulant similar to amphetamines. It has earned the nickname 'jihadist drug' due to its reported misuse by terrorist organizations, such as ISIS, to enhance fighters' energy, endurance, and reduce fear in combat situations. Often referred to as the 'poor man's cocaine', authorities are investigating the alleged terrorist connections of the Syrian national who was operating from Delhi and sending drugs to West Asia. An official familiar with the investigation stated, “This seizure was made in Delhi and at Mundra Port. Approximately 200 kilograms of Captagon originated from Syria and was destined for Saudi Arabia. The investigation is ongoing.” In recent years, various agencies have uncovered significant drug shipments and other prohibited items at ports across the country. According to information provided by Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai in response to a question in Parliament on March 18, 2025, drugs worth ₹11,311 crores were seized in 19 major drug bust operations from 2020 to 2024.