Massive Drug Bust in Maharashtra: DRI Dismantles Mobile Mephedrone Lab Worth ₹55 Crore

In a major anti-narcotics operation, authorities busted a mobile mephedrone lab disguised as a poultry farm in Maharashtra, seizing drugs worth ₹55 crore and arresting five suspects.

Pune|27 January,2026: In a major crackdown on organised narcotics manufacturing in Maharashtra, enforcement agencies dismantled a sophisticated mobile mephedrone production unit operating under the cover of a poultry farm in the Sahyadri region. The operation led to the seizure of synthetic drugs and precursor chemicals valued at approximately ₹55 crore in the illicit market, along with the arrest of five individuals allegedly involved in the manufacturing and distribution network.

The illegal laboratory was located in a remote and forested area, chosen strategically to evade routine surveillance. Investigators revealed that the setup was designed to be mobile, allowing the operators to shift locations frequently to avoid detection. The structure outwardly resembled a poultry shed, but inside it housed equipment and chemicals used for large-scale production of mephedrone, a banned synthetic stimulant commonly referred to as a party drug.

During the raid, officials recovered nearly 22 kilograms of mephedrone in multiple forms, including liquid, semi-liquid, and crystalline substances. In addition, more than 70 kilograms of raw materials and precursor chemicals were seized, which were capable of producing several more kilograms of finished narcotics. The combined seizure significantly disrupted the supply chain and is believed to have prevented large quantities of drugs from entering urban markets.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the accused were part of a well-organised network that handled production, storage, and distribution across different regions. Some of the seized narcotics had reportedly been moved from the lab to residential locations before the raid, indicating advanced planning and coordination. Two suspects were intercepted while allegedly attempting to collect a fresh consignment, further exposing the scale of the operation.

Officials confirmed that several of the arrested individuals have previous records related to narcotics and organised crime, pointing to repeat involvement in illegal drug activities. The accused are expected to face stringent charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, which carries severe penalties, including long prison terms.

Experts note that the use of agricultural facilities and rural cover for illegal drug labs has become an increasing concern for enforcement agencies. Such locations provide isolation, easy access to water and electricity, and reduced public scrutiny, making them attractive for illicit manufacturing. The discovery of a mobile setup highlights the evolving tactics used by drug syndicates to bypass law enforcement.

Mephedrone abuse has emerged as a serious public health issue in recent years, particularly among young adults, due to its highly addictive nature and severe psychological and physical effects. Authorities continue to warn that synthetic drugs pose a growing threat to society, contributing to crime, health emergencies, and social instability.

In conclusion, the dismantling of this mobile mephedrone lab marks a significant success in Maharashtra’s ongoing fight against narcotics trafficking. Officials stated that further investigations are underway to identify additional links, financial channels, and end-users connected to the racket, while reiterating their commitment to curbing the manufacture and spread of illegal drugs.

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