Bengaluru, March 9, 2024: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has made a significant breakthrough in its crackdown on drug trafficking with the arrest of Jaffer Sadiq, a prominent film producer accused of masterminding a massive drug smuggling operation valued at over ₹2,000 crore. Sadiq, a former DMK functionary known for his involvement in the South Indian film industry, had been evading authorities since February 15, until his capture following a four-month manhunt.
The NCB has labeled Sadiq as the “kingpin” of an intricate drug trafficking network spanning India, Australia, and New Zealand. According to Gyaneshwar Singh, Deputy Director General of the NCB, Sadiq orchestrated the smuggling of 3,500 kg of pseudoephedrine—used in the production of methamphetamine—concealed within coconuts and dry fruits, destined for Australia. Singh revealed that the drugs were concealed in parcels, totaling 45 shipments.
Sadiq’s escape route included a journey through various cities, including Thiruvananthapur, Mumbai, Pune, and Hyderabad, before reaching Jaipur, where he was finally apprehended. The NCB alleges that Sadiq utilized the proceeds from drug smuggling to accumulate vast wealth, investing in real estate ventures, film production, and even purchasing a hotel.
His arrest comes on the heels of a significant drug seizure last week, where methamphetamine worth ₹180 crore was confiscated from two rail passengers in Madurai and a dump yard in Chennai. The seized drugs were reportedly intended for smuggling into Sri Lanka.
Methamphetamine, colloquially known as “ice” or “crystal meth,” is a highly addictive psychostimulant with potent euphoric effects, closely resembling those of cocaine. The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence warns of its life-threatening consequences.
Following the recent drug busts, K Annamalai, BJP state chief, criticized the ruling DMK party, alleging that Tamil Nadu has become the “drug capital” of India. Annamalai pointed to Sadiq’s alleged involvement, as well as the apprehension of other individuals associated with the international drug syndicate.
In a related development, three additional suspects linked to the drug network were arrested by the NCB in Delhi. Cooperation between the NCB and the United States’ Federal Bureau of Investigation underscores the international dimension of the ongoing drug probe.
Sources By Agencies
