Nagpur: In a major crackdown on drug smuggling, Crime Branch seized Mephedrone (MD) drugs worth ₹66.21 lakh, intended for New Year parties in Nagpur.

Acting on a tip-off, Police Constable Ashwin Mange, along with a panch witness, intercepted the gang near Koradi Lake. The operation led to the confiscation of 554 grams of MD powder valued at ₹55.4 lakh, five mobile phones worth ₹81,000, and a Duster SUV valued at ₹10 lakh. A case has been registered at Koradi Police Station under the NDPS Act, 1985.

The gang was reportedly smuggling MD drugs from Rajasthan via Madhya Pradesh to distribute them at New Year celebrations in Nagpur. Three suspects were apprehended on the spot, while further investigations unveiled their involvement in serious crimes. Pawan Mishra alias Miheer, the prime accused, has prior cases of murder, attempted murder, and fraud. Sumit Chintalwar, another key suspect, is infamous for crimes such as murder, extortion, illegal possession of firearms, and MCOCA-related offenses. Shaikh Atik alias Bhuru is linked to attempted murder charges, and Manish Kushwaha has a murder case against him.

PI Gajanan Gulhane, NPC Sheshrao Raut, PC Ashwin Mange, Santosh Choudhari, Sameer Sheikh, Kunal Masram and others conducted this successful operation under the supervision of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Detection) Rahul Makanikar and Assistant Commissioner of Police Abhijit Patil from the Crime Branch. The police are now investigating further to dismantle the drug network and trace additional culprits.

This timely action by Nagpur Police has not only prevented the circulation of drugs but also ensured tighter security ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations in the city.