Gujarat ATS Busts Illegal Drug Manufacturing Unit in Rajasthan, Three Arrested

Ahmedabad / Jaipur / Bhiwadi, December 29, 2025 – In a significant strike against organised narcotics, the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS), in collaboration with the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and local police, dismantled an illegal drug manufacturing unit in Bhiwadi, Rajasthan, arresting three key suspects. Authorities seized approximately 22 kilograms of psychotropic substances, revealing a sophisticated interstate drug network operating under the cover of a pharmaceutical company.

Intelligence-Led Operation

According to the ATS, the raid targeted APL Pharma, located in the RIICO Industrial Area, Bhiwadi, following credible intelligence on illicit drug production. Surveillance and human intelligence confirmed the operation, leading to the joint raid on December 28, 2025.

While the premises appeared to function as a legitimate pharmaceutical facility, officers discovered a fully operational production line manufacturing Alprazolam and other banned psychotropic drugs without any legal license or authorization. The seizure included 5 kg of Alprazolam and 17 kg of semi-processed psychotropic substances, indicating large-scale, sustained production.

Arrests and Detentions

The three arrested individuals are:

• Anshul Anilkumar Shastri (40) – Agra, Uttar Pradesh
• Akhilesh Kumar Parasnath Maurya (41) – Tapukara, Rajasthan
• Krishna Kumar Shrei Yadav (33) – Tapukara, Rajasthan

Three labourers present at the site were also detained for questioning to determine their involvement in the illegal operations.

Scale and Method of Operation

Investigators revealed that the unit operated systematically, producing controlled substances over several months. Raw materials, precursor chemicals, and intermediate products recovered from the site indicate a multi-stage production process capable of sustained output.

Alprazolam, widely prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, is a controlled psychotropic drug under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act due to its high abuse potential. Illegal manufacturing and distribution of such substances carry severe legal consequences in India.

Legal Proceedings

A case has been registered at the Bhiwadi Phase-3 (UIT) Sector-3 police station under relevant sections of the NDPS Act. The arrested individuals face charges for illegal manufacture and possession of psychotropic drugs. Authorities are investigating whether the substances were intended for local distribution, neighboring states, or wider national black markets.

Supply Chain and Broader Investigation

The ATS and Rajasthan Police are probing the wider network, focusing on:

• Sources of raw materials and chemicals
• Interstate distribution channels
• Potential links to organised crime syndicates
• Financial transactions and communications

Officials noted that the seizure of 22 kg of contraband suggests prolonged activity, with further arrests expected as the investigation continues.

Inter-State Cooperation Against Organised Crime

This operation is part of Gujarat ATS’s broader campaign against organised crime and illegal narcotics. Earlier in December, the agency had dismantled another illegal drug unit in Jodhpur, seizing 40 kg of liquid mephedrone.

A senior ATS spokesperson emphasized the importance of inter-state coordination: “Criminal networks operate across borders; effective policing requires cooperation between states.” Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity related to chemical procurement or drug distribution.

The investigation is ongoing, and further updates on arrests, court proceedings, and seizures will be released as they occur.