Overview
- Maharashtra’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force says it dismantled three mephedrone factories in Bengaluru, seizing about 21.4 kg of MD in solid and liquid form along with machinery and chemicals valued at Rs 55.88 crore.
- The operation followed a Dec. 21 arrest in Vashi where 1.488 kg of MD was seized, with interrogation pointing to alleged manufacturer Prashant Yallappa Patil and production sites in Bengaluru.
- Police say four suspects have been arrested, including Patil along with Suraj Ramesh Yadav and Malkhan Ramlal Bishnoi, and that two accused remain absconding as special teams pursue them.
- Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara says the action was conducted with Karnataka Police and the NCB, contends only one location was raided, and estimates seized chemicals at roughly Rs 1.2 crore.
- Investigators contend the MD output supplied multiple states and that proceeds were routed into Bengaluru real estate, and the ANTF has issued a public helpline seeking tips.