NCB Busts Captagon Smuggling Ring, Syrian National Arrested

In a major breakthrough in the fight against international narcotics trafficking, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has made a significant seizure of around 2277 kg of Captagon tablets worth Rs 182 crore. This marks the country's first major interception of the synthetic drug, commonly known as the 'Jihadi drug'.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to social media to aounce the success of 'Operation RAGEPILL', praising the agencies involved in the seizure. He stated, "Glad to share that through 'Operation RAGEPILL', our agencies have achieved the first-ever seizure of Captagon, the so-called 'Jihadi Drug', worth Rs 182 crore. Kudos to the brave and vigilant warriors of the NCB."

Foreign National Arrested

Following a tip-off from a foreign drug law enforcement agency, the NCB identified a house in South Delhi's Neb Sarai area. A search of the premises led to the recovery of approximately 315 kg of Captagon tablets concealed in a commercial chapati cutting machine, intended for export to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The Syrian national, who had entered India on a tourist visa that had expired, was found illegally overstaying in the country and renting the house in Neb Sarai. Further investigation led to the recovery of an additional 1962 kg of Captagon powder from a container at Mundra, Gujarat, imported from Syria under the guise of sheep wool.

History and Impact of Captagon

Originally developed in the 1960s for medical purposes, Captagon, linked to the pharmaceutical compound Fenethylline, was later baed internationally due to its addictive nature. Illicit versions of Captagon are now produced in clandestine labs, containing a mix of stimulants.

The drug is known for its ability to induce alertness, suppress fatigue, and generate euphoria, but it is also associated with negative effects such as aggression, impaired judgment, and psychological dependence. Captagon has gained notoriety for its alleged links to conflict zones in West Asia, with proceeds from its trade funding criminal and extremist activities.

Enforcement agencies worldwide have flagged Captagon trade as a growing threat, involving sophisticated smuggling methods and complex financial networks. The seizure and arrest by the NCB underscore India's commitment to combating drug trafficking and ensuring zero tolerance towards illicit substances.

For more updates, follow us on Instagram .