DRI seizes about 23.5 MT of Mandrax tablets worth over Rs. 3 K crore

New Delhi [India], Nov.2 (ANI): In one of the biggest seizures of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), apex counter-smuggling agency of the Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC), has confirmed seizing about 23.5 metric tonnes of Mandrax tablets, a banned psychotropic substance under Schedule I of NDPS Rules, 1985. The Border Security Force (BSF) at Udaipur assisted the DRI in this operation. Information was received about huge quantities of Mandrax tablets being concealed in a premises at Udaipur by a Mumbai-based mastermind. On October 28, a team of DRI officers raided the premises of M/s Marudhar Drinks, Bhamasha Industial Area, Kaladwas, Udaipur. During the search, DRI officers detected a hidden room filled with cartons of Mandrax tablets. The total number of tablets are estimated to be about 2 crore in numbers with a weight of about 23.5 metric tonnes (23500 kgs). The international market value of seized tablets is estimated to be over Rs. 3000 crores. This is one of the largest seizures of Mandrax not only in India, but also in the world. The mastermind of the syndicate has been arrested by DRI and follow-up operation is underway to nab others involved with the drug syndicate. Methaqualone is a depressant, overdose of which can lead to coma and death. It is used as a recreational drug in Africa and Asia. It is commonly known as Mandrax, M-pills, buttons, or smarties and is usually smoked mixed with cannabis. (ANI)