Massive Rs 425 Crore Illicit Cough Syrup Trade Exposed

An interstate network involved in illicit codeine-based cough syrup trade has been unearthed by an SIT, revealing Rs 425 crore in irregular transactions by Jharkhand's Shaili Traders. Notices have been issued to multiple firm owners linked to the network, and bank accounts totaling Rs 60 lakh have been frozen.

An extensive investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has uncovered a sprawling interstate network allegedly involved in the illicit trade of regulated cough syrup, with questionable transactions amounting to Rs 425 crore by a Jharkhand-based pharmaceutical firm.

Authorities scrutinized financial dealings of Shaili Traders, which surfaced during the probe, identifying major discrepancies over two years. Superintendent of Police Abhishek Verma stated that firm accountant Vishnu Agarwal must submit all transaction and GST records by December 10. Notices have been dispatched to owners of various associated medical stores allegedly linked to the illegal operations.

Some 30 bank accounts linked to the illegal trade have been frozen, securing Rs 60 lakh so far. The SIT is conducting a thorough investigation involving all suspected parties in the interstate trade, following large seizures of codeine-based syrup in Uttar Pradesh districts. The case was initiated at Sonbhadra's Robertsganj police station.

(With inputs from agencies.)