Intelligence-Led Bust Initiated from Mandsaur
The operation was triggered by specific intelligence received by CBN’s Neemuch branch on 13 February 2026. Officers intercepted a bus at BPL Chauraha, Mandsaur, recovering 8.172 kg of crystal Methamphetamine from two passengers. Both individuals admitted transporting the drug from a clandestine manufacturing facility. This led to the formation of a special inter-district CBN team from Neemuch, Mandsaur, Ujjain, and Jaora to trace the laboratory.
Locating the Sophisticated Laboratory
On the early morning of 14 February, the team identified the suspected premises, characterized by an iron gate and two palm trees at the entrance. Intense chemical fumes and an overpowering odour necessitated the involvement of a specialised team equipped with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) from Neemuch. The laboratory was found to contain modern machinery and plant installations used for MD production.
Dismantling and Seizure of Equipment
Due to the technical complexity of the lab machinery, officers sought assistance from the Government Opium and Alkaloid Works (GOAW), Neemuch. A four-member team of engineers and chemists arrived on 15 February to dismantle and seize the equipment. The combined efforts of CBN and GOAW ensured complete neutralization of the manufacturing facility while adhering to safety protocols.
Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation
The two individuals caught at Mandsaur and the laboratory owner have been formally charged under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985. Further investigation is underway to dismantle the wider network involved in manufacturing and distributing synthetic drugs. Officials emphasized the role of coordinated, intelligence-driven action in curbing narcotic menace.
CBN’s Commitment to a Drug-Free India
This operation underscores the Central Bureau of Narcotics’ dedication, coordination, and technical expertise in combating narcotics. The agency highlighted that swift intelligence-based actions, inter-district cooperation, and technical support from GOAW Neemuch were key to successfully executing one of the state’s largest synthetic drug busts. CBN reiterated its resolve to eliminate narcotics and psychotropic substances and ensure India remains drug-free.
