Major Drug Manufacturing Operation Uncovered in Andhra Pradesh
Significant Drug Bust in Andhra Pradesh
New Delhi, March 13: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully uncovered an illegal facility involved in the production of Alprazolam, a controlled psychotropic substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. This operation took place in the Kondapalli Industrial Development Area located in the NTR district of Andhra Pradesh, as reported by the Finance Ministry on Friday.
During the search of the site, authorities seized 237 kg of Alprazolam, which is valued at approximately Rs 47 crore, according to a statement from the ministry.
The operation, named “Operation White Hammer,” was intelligence-driven and revealed a fully operational industrial facility that was allegedly producing Alprazolam disguised as a chemical manufacturing unit.
In addition, officials discovered over 800 kg of essential raw materials, 2,860 litres of various chemicals, and industrial-grade equipment such as reactors, driers, and a centrifuge, suggesting a well-organized and large-scale clandestine drug production operation.
Initial investigations indicated that the operation was allegedly led by a chemist with over two decades of experience in the chemical and pharmaceutical industries, who collaborated with an associate responsible for sourcing raw materials and managing distribution networks in Hyderabad.
Authorities noted that the accused had leased the factory space to facilitate the illegal production of Alprazolam.
Both individuals believed to be the masterminds behind this operation have been apprehended, and further investigations are ongoing.
Officials highlighted that during the current fiscal year, the DRI has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing facilities through intelligence-led operations.
“This year, the DRI has dismantled eight clandestine drug manufacturing units, reinforcing its commitment to the Government’s Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan and to protecting society from the threats posed by narcotic and psychotropic substances,” they stated.
In a related incident earlier in February, a joint operation by the Assam Rifles and the DRI resulted in the seizure of highly addictive methamphetamine tablets worth over Rs 45 crore, along with the arrest of a drug dealer in Tripura.