NCB Seizes 50 Kg of Pseudoephedrine in Chennai, Arrests Three in Drug Trafficking Probe

Chennai: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Chennai Zonal Unit, has uncovered a suspected international drug trafficking operation by seizing 50 kg of pseudoephedrine from a factory operating under the cover of a plastic bottle and container manufacturing business. Three people, including a father and son, have been arrested in connection with the case.

The seized chemical is estimated to be worth around Rs 1 crore in the international illicit market.

Chemical Hidden Inside Factory Premises

According to the NCB, its team conducted a raid on November 12 at M/s AN Enterprises, located in Annai Indira Nagar, MKB Nagar, Chennai. During the search, officials recovered two sacks containing the chemical, with approximately 25 kg stored in each.

The estimated value of the seized substance is around Rs 2 lakh per kg. The recovery has led investigators to examine the suspected supply chain and the intended use of the consignment.

Was the Chemical Intended for International Smuggling?

Preliminary investigations suggest that the consignment had been brought to Chennai from Hyderabad. The agency suspects that the chemical was intended to be smuggled abroad and potentially used in the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine.

Investigators are also examining possible links to an international trafficking network with connections extending to Australia and New Zealand.

NCB Traces Supply Chain and Overseas Links

Pseudoephedrine and ephedrine are chemicals that can be used in the illicit production of narcotic substances. The NCB is now investigating the accused persons' contacts, the source of the consignment and its suspected overseas destination.

The agency has also highlighted its national anti-drug helpline, 1933 (MANAS), for reporting information related to drug trafficking. It reiterated its commitment to continuing enforcement operations under the broader goal of a drug-free India.