Nagpur: With Holi celebrations around the corner and multiple private parties being planned across the city, the Nagpur Crime Branch has intensified its crackdown on narcotics to prevent the circulation of synthetic drugs among youth.

Under Operation Thunder 2.0, Unit 3 of the Crime Branch conducted a late-night raid in the Hudkeshwar police station limits and seized a substantial quantity of Mephedrone (MD), commonly known as party drug, valued at over ₹21 lakh. Officials suspect the contraband was intended to be supplied at Holi gatherings in the city.

The action was carried out between 2.40 am and 5.10 am on March 1, 2025, at New Narsala Road in Bahadura under the jurisdiction of Hudkeshwar Police Station.

Accused Arrested, One Absconding

Police have arrested a 28-year-old resident of New Narsala in connection with the case. Another suspect, identified as Pintoo alias Golu Khan from Tajbagh, is currently absconding and is being traced.

The complainant in the case is a Crime Branch officer attached to Unit 3. An offence has been registered under Sections 8(c), 22(c) and 29 of the NDPS Act at Hudkeshwar Police Station.

Contraband Worth ₹22.42 Lakh Seized

During patrolling, the accused was spotted moving suspiciously on a Honda Karizma motorcycle. Acting on suspicion, police detained him and conducted a search in the presence of panch witnesses.

The search led to the recovery of:

• 105.670 grams of MD (Mephedrone) powder valued at approximately ₹21.13 lakh
• Three mobile phones worth ₹26,000
• Honda Karizma motorcycle worth ₹1 lakh
• Two electronic weighing scales
• 47 plastic sachets

The total value of the seized material stands at ₹22,42,100.

Focus on Holi Party Drug Supply

Investigators believe the MD was likely meant for distribution among youth during upcoming Holi parties in Nagpur, where synthetic drugs often find demand. With several celebrations being promoted across the city, police have stepped up surveillance to curb illegal activities linked to narcotics.

The accused and seized material have been handed over to Hudkeshwar Police for further investigation. Officials are now probing the supply chain to identify the source of the drugs and to ascertain whether a larger network is involved.

Further arrests are expected as the probe progresses.