ED Cracks Down on Cough Syrup Trafficking Network, Executes Raids

The Enforcement Directorate conducted raids across 25 locations targeting an alleged illegal cough syrup network led by Shubham Jaiswal. Raids took place in Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Gujarat, involving pharmaceutical diversions. A previous seizure in Varanasi revealed 30,000 bottles of codeine-laced syrup, implicating Jaiswal and his associates.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) initiated a large-scale operation on Thursday, executing searches at 25 sites linked to an alleged illicit trade in cough syrup. The operation targeted key suspect Shubham Jaiswal and his associates, marking locations in states including Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Gujarat.

The probe focused on properties associated with Jaiswal, along with his affiliates Alok Singh, Amit Singh, and various manufacturers purportedly diverting pharmaceutical supplies for illegal distribution. Additionally, the premises of chartered accountant Vishnu Aggarwal are under scrutiny.

In a related operation on December 10, Varanasi Police seized roughly 30,000 bottles of banned codeine-based cough syrup from a warehouse. Valued at Rs 60 lakh, the seizure highlighted the illegal activities tied to Jaiswal, with arrest warrants issued under the NDPS Act.

(With inputs from agencies.)