Mumbai, August 11: The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has made significant strides against illegal drug manufacturing and international trafficking by dismantling an organized gang. This group was secretly producing banned substances for export to African countries.
During a covert operation, the DRI seized 100,000 Tramadol hydrochloride tablets and 100,000 Tapentadol tablets. Additionally, machinery and raw materials used in illegal manufacturing were confiscated. Three key suspects have been arrested in connection with the case.
On August 2, 2026, acting on a tip-off, DRI officials intercepted a shipment at the Mumbai Air Cargo Complex destined for Nigeria. While the documents labeled the cargo as Pregabalin 300 mg capsules, an inspection revealed 100,000 concealed Tramadol hydrochloride 250 mg tablets (approximately 25 kilograms) and 100,000 Tapentadol 200 mg tablets (about 20 kilograms).
The investigation uncovered a well-planned network operating in multiple stages. The Tramadol tablets were being secretly manufactured in a factory located in Ambernath, Maharashtra. To conceal their identity, they were packed in ordinary cartons before being transferred to a warehouse near the Mumbai Air Cargo Complex, where they were repackaged into white bags for shipment to Nigeria.
Following this, the DRI conducted simultaneous raids at various locations linked to the exporter, manufacturer, supplier, transporter, and warehouse. During the search of the manufacturing unit, tablet-making machines and a large quantity of raw materials used for psychoactive substances were recovered.
Three main suspects have been arrested, including an IEC holder exporter, a supplier and coordinator, and an illegal manufacturer of Tramadol.
According to the DRI, Tramadol and Tapentadol are synthetic opioid pain relievers used under medical supervision for moderate to severe pain treatment. However, due to the potential for misuse and addiction, strict regulatory controls are in place. Tramadol is classified as a psychoactive substance under the NDPS Act of 1985, while Tapentadol, although not yet listed under the NDPS Act, is under strict regulation according to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Officials stated that the illegal manufacturing, storage, and trafficking of these drugs pose a serious threat to public health and are often linked to international organized drug trafficking networks.
The DRI asserts that this operation has effectively dismantled a large organized network involved in illegal manufacturing, storage, concealment, and overseas shipment.
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