Cough Syrup Crackdown: Varanasi's Undercover Operation

Police in Varanasi arrest two men involved in an illegal codeine-based cough syrup trade. The operation was run using forged documents to obtain drug licenses. Key figures were promised quick money, leading to a business worth Rs 7 crore, facilitated through various fraudulent means.

Police in Varanasi have arrested two individuals for their involvement in the illegal sale of codeine-based cough syrup, authorities confirmed on Monday. The suspects, Vishal Kumar Jaiswal and Badal Arya, were apprehended following an investigation led by DCP Gaurav Banswal of the Kashi zone.

Investigations uncovered how Shubham Jaiswal of Shaili Traders secured a drug licence through forged documentation, enabling him to purchase and distribute large quantities of the syrup, primarily for recreational drug use. This illicit operation was conducted through various medical firms.

During interrogations, it was revealed that Vishal Kumar and Arya were enticed into the trade by promises of quick financial gains. They secured forged drug licenses with assistance from the Jaiswals, and the scheme saw substantial financial transactions, with turnovers reaching approximately Rs 7 crore within a year. Their businesses facilitated extensive sales of the syrup, with significant monetary transactions being routed through Shaili Traders.