DRI Raids Alprazolam Factory in AP; Seizes 237 kg Drugs worth Rs.47 Cr
13 March 2026 11:27 AM IST13 March 2026 11:27 AM IST
Preliminary investigation revealed the operation was orchestrated by a chemist with over 20 years’ experience in chemical and pharmaceutical sector, in collusion with his associate who arranged raw materials and distribution in Hyderabad
The DRI has busted a clandestine facility engaged in the production of Alprazolam, a psychotropic substance under the NDPS Act-1985, in Kondapalli Industrial Development Area, NTR district, Andhra Pradesh. (Photo: By Arrangement)
Vijayawada: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has seized 237 kg of Alprazolam, a psychotropic substance, worth about ₹47 crore during a raid on a facility in the Kondapalli Industrial Development Area in NTR district. Two persons described as the masterminds behind the illegal operation were arrested.
Acting on intelligence inputs, the DRI carried out a coordinated operation, code-named ‘Operation White Hammer’, on March 11 and 12. Officials discovered a full-fledged industrial setup for the manufacture of Alprazolam operating under the guise of a chemical manufacturing unit.
During searches at the premises, DRI officials found around 800 kg of key raw materials, 2,860 litres of various chemicals and industrial-scale equipment such as reactors, dryers and a centrifuge, indicating a well-organised and large-scale clandestine manufacturing facility.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the illegal production of Alprazolam was being carried out by a chemist with more than 20 years of experience in the chemical and pharmaceutical sector in collusion with an associate who arranged raw materials and distribution in Hyderabad.
Officials said the accused had rented the factory premises for manufacturing the substance. Both were arrested and further investigation is under way.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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