IN A major step to control the rising drug problem in Nagpur and nearby areas, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is planning to open a Sub-zonal office in the city. The Central Government agency, which works under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has already selected a location in Sakkardara for this office. The final approval from the Ministry is awaited.

 

The NCB is responsible for stopping drug-trafficking and misuse of banned substances in India. So far, the Nagpur region was under the control of the NCB’s Mumbai Zonal Office. However, with drug cases increasing rapidly in Central India, the NCB has decided to strengthen its presence in Nagpur. Sources from the NCB said that an officer of Additional Director rank will lead the Nagpur office. A team of NCB officials recently visited the city and inspected various places.

 

It found Sakkardara to be the most suitable location due to its proximity to areas like Motha Tajbagh, Wathoda, Pardi, and parts of South and East Nagpur - all of which are becoming key zones for drug distribution. Once the Ministry of Home Affairs gives its final approval, the number of staff and officials for the new office will be decided. However, the NCB’s headquarters in Delhi has already agreed to start the office, and it is expected to begin operations by next month. This development comes at a time when Nagpur is seeing a major rise in drug activity, especially the sale and use of MD (Mephedrone). Reports show a shocking 1,200% increase in MD seizures over the last five years. In just the first half of 2024, Nagpur police seized 1.81 kg of MD worth Rs 1.84 crore. The SubZonal office is expected to help control the growing drug network and improve coordination between central and local law enforcement agencies in the region, the officials said . 

 

 

■ Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI). A clandestine mephedrone factory was uncovered in Nagpur's Paachpaoli area, leading to the seizure of 51.95 kg of liquid mephedrone worth approximately Rs 78 crore in August 2024.

■ The Crime Branch seized 474 grams of mephedrone (MD) valued at Rs 47.4 lakh from a flat in the Dighori area in May 2025. Two persons were arrested, and investigations pointed to inter-state links.

■ Crime Branch Unit 5 arrested two drug peddlers, Sajid Ali and Sheikh Amin Sheikh Rashid, with 90.44 grams of MD powder worth Rs 5.42 lakh.

■ MD Seizure and Four Arrests in Kapil Nagar (May 2025): The Crime Branch Anti-Narcotics Squad successfully seized 12 grams of MD powder and related assets worth ?4.67 lakh, arresting four individuals in the Kapil Nagar area. This highlights continuous smaller busts targeting local distribution.

■ Kalamna Police, after a dramatic chase, intercepted a vehicle and seized 108 kg of ganja worth Rs 27 lakh in June 2025.