Multi-crore drug racket exposes nexus between law enforcement and interstate trafficking network
Lucknow/Varanasi: The Special Task Force (STF) of Uttar Pradesh Police has uncovered shocking details linking a dismissed constable to an interstate drug syndicate worth over Rs 100 crore, dealing in codeine-laced Phensedyl cough syrup.
Alok Pratap Singh, the dismissed STF constable, remains absconding despite extensive raids conducted across multiple districts including Jaunpur, Varanasi, Ghazipur, Ballia, and Mirzapur. His involvement in the narcotic supply network came to light following the arrest of his business associate, Amit Kumar Singh, alias Amit Tata.
The Business Network
Investigation documents that went viral on social media Saturday reveal the extent of the operation. During interrogation, Amit Singh disclosed that he and Alok had established multiple firms to facilitate the drug trade, operating in collaboration with key operatives Shubham Jaiswal, Varun Singh, Gaurav Jaiswal, and Vishal Mehrotra.
The partnership was brokered through Vikas Singh from Azamgarh in January 2024. According to STF sources, all financial transactions were managed by Shubham, Varun, and their chartered accountant, creating a sophisticated network designed to evade detection.
The Dhanbad Operation
The accused invested Rs 5 lakh each in establishing operations in Dhanbad, Jharkhand. This investment yielded returns of approximately Rs 20-22 lakh, with Varun Singh managing the ground operations. Multiple trips were made to Dhanbad to facilitate the supply chain, sources confirmed.
The syndicate’s reach extended beyond state borders, with authorities tracing distribution networks to West Bengal, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The operation relied on fake bills and cash transactions to mask the illegal trade.
Varanasi Connection
In Varanasi, Alok established a firm under the name “Maa Sharda Medical,” while Amit also registered a separate entity. These fronts operated for approximately two to three months, exclusively dealing in codeine-containing Phensedyl cough syrup.
Operating entirely through cash transactions, the duo generated profits of nearly Rs 8 lakh from the Varanasi operations alone. Amit reportedly deposited these proceeds into his wife’s bank account to avoid scrutiny.
Political Connections Under Scanner
The investigation has taken a sensitive turn with the emergence of names connected to political circles. Sources indicate that a prominent strongman from Paranuchal region is linked to the case, and an MLA is reportedly close to Amit Singh.
“The STF has not yet been able to interrogate the strongman,” a source said, adding that Alok Pratap Singh also maintains close ties with the influential figure. Investigators believe that Alok’s eventual arrest could expose several prominent individuals involved in the racket.
White-collar professionals are also under the STF’s radar as the probe deepens into the financial aspects of the syndicate.
The Phensedyl Trade
Phensedyl, a codeine-based cough syrup, is banned in Bangladesh where it’s commonly used as an intoxicant and liquor substitute. The high profit margins make it attractive to smugglers, with bottles costing Rs 80 in India fetching Rs 350-400 across the border.
The syndicate exploited this price differential, creating a lucrative cross-border trade network worth crores of rupees.
Asset Investigation Underway
The STF has initiated a comprehensive investigation into Alok Pratap Singh’s assets, attempting to trace the money trail and identify additional properties or investments made through proceeds from the drug trade.
Authorities are also examining bank records, property registrations, and business dealings to establish the full extent of the network’s operations and financial gains.
Next Steps
With Alok still at large, the STF continues its manhunt across eastern Uttar Pradesh. Officials remain tight-lipped about specific leads but indicate that his arrest is imminent and could prove to be a breakthrough in dismantling the entire network.
The case has raised serious questions about the involvement of serving or former law enforcement personnel in organized crime, prompting calls for stricter vigilance and accountability mechanisms within security agencies.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as authorities continue their probe into the multi-state drug trafficking network.
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