In a significant crackdown on narcotics, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and the Delhi Police’s Special Cell raided a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory in Greater Noida on October 25, seizing nearly 95 kg of drugs, including both solid and liquid forms of methamphetamine. The bust also uncovered precursor chemicals and sophisticated manufacturing machinery used for large-scale drug production.
According to an exclusive report by India Today, the authorities were tipped off about the illegal facility, allegedly established to manufacture synthetic drugs for both domestic use and international distribution. Initial investigations have revealed a surprising lineup of suspects operating the lab: a warden from Delhi’s Tihar Jail, a local businessman previously linked to narcotics, and a chemist based in Mumbai. Allegations also point to an association with “Cartel De Jalisco Nueva Generacion,” a powerful Mexican drug cartel, whose members reportedly supervised aspects of the drug production process in India.
During the raid, the Delhi-based businessman, who was apprehended at the site, was found to have a history with narcotics enforcement, having previously been detained by the Department of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) in a separate narcotics case. Reports suggest the businessman cultivated ties with the Tihar Jail warden, who allegedly facilitated access to the specialized chemicals and equipment required for drug synthesis. Additionally, an associate of the businessman was detained in Delhi’s Rajouri Garden area in connection with the lab.
The chemist from Mumbai, reportedly recruited by the accused, played a critical role in overseeing the methamphetamine production process. Quality control checks, allegedly conducted by a member of the Mexican cartel residing in Delhi, were part of the operation to maintain the potency and consistency of the synthetic drugs produced at the facility.
All four suspects were brought before a magistrate on October 27 and have been remanded to three days in police custody. Authorities continue to investigate the case, with additional arrests and further revelations expected as details of the international nexus behind the methamphetamine operation emerge.
