Pune Police Bust International Drug Racket, Seize Rs 3.5 Crores Worth of Mephedrone, Arrest Three Suspects from Vishrantwadi

In a significant crackdown on Monday, the Pune Police’s Crime Branch dismantled an international drug racket, confiscating Mephedrone (MD) drugs valued at ₹3.5 crores and apprehending three suspects. The operation, led by Police Constable Vitthal Salunkhe of the Crime Branch’s unit one, resulted in the arrest of Vaibhav alias Pintya Bharat Mane from Pune, Ajay Amarnath Karosia (35, Pune), and Haider Sheikh from Vishrantwadi.

Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar emphasized a zero-tolerance policy towards such narcotics operations during a press briefing where he highlighted the success of the operation. Joint Commissioner of Police Pravin Pawar, along with Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Shailesh Balakawade, Deputy Commissioner (Crime) Amol Zende, Assistant Commissioner (Crime) Sunil Tambe, and Satish Govekar, were also present during the briefing.

The breakthrough came when Police Constable Vitthal Salunkhe received vital information leading to the interception of Vaibhav and Ajay while they were allegedly transporting mephedrone in Somwar Peth. Following their apprehension, the investigative team managed to extract valuable intel from the suspects, uncovering the involvement of Haider Shaikh in the drug supply chain.

In a swift operation, five teams were dispatched to apprehend Haider, who was found in possession of mephedrone worth one crore (500 grams). Additionally, a further half crore (750 grams) of the illicit substance was discovered in his salt godown, raising suspicions of a potential mixing operation.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to unravel the intricacies of the drug distribution network and ascertain whether the seized mephedrone was being adulterated with salt before distribution.

The successful operation underscores the Pune Police’s commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. With continued vigilance and collaborative efforts, law enforcement authorities aim to root out such criminal enterprises and maintain peace and order in the region.