Drug syndicate turning youth into ‘peddlers’

BHOPAL’S‘City of Lakes’ image is being overshadowed by a sophisticated drug network that has transitioned from urban slums to the bedrooms of the elite. Investigations over the past year reveal that MD (Mephedrone) has not only trapped affluent, educated youth in addiction but has effectively turned them into active ‘peddlers’ and suppliers for international syndicates. ‘Death Consignment’Route: The City Crime Branch has identified a robust supply chain linked to Rajasthan (Kota, Udaipur, Jaipur), Gujarat (Ahmedabad, Surat), and DelhiNCR. Syndicates utilise luxury private vehicles, buses, and trains to transport small, frequent consignments, successfully evading traditional police checkpoints.

 

Weaponising Influence:“The syndicate strategically targets youth from influential backgrounds,” stated Shailendra Singh Chauhan, Additional DCP (Crime Branch). The process typically begins in high-end gyms, pubs or lounges under the guise of ‘stamina boosters.’ Once addicted, these individuals are incentivised with luxury lifestyles to recruit others from their social circles into the distribution network. High-Profile Crackdowns: Aban Shakeel Case: A prominent figure running a school and cricket academy in Kohefiza, Shakeel used his social standing to mask a distribution hub, selling MD for Rs 10,000 per gram.

 

Aksa Khan Arrest: Apprehended with 9 grams of MD in November, Khan’s involvement highlighted the network’s infiltration into sports and educational sectors. DJ Yasin Connection: Previous probe into Yasin ‘Machhli’ exposed the deep penetration of MD within city’s club and music culture. While Bhopal remains a primary hub, consumption is surging in Indore, Jabalpur, Gwalior, and Ujjain. College campuses and private parties remain high-risk zones. Crime Branch is currently mapping high-profile links to intercept ‘Masterminds’ behind this multi-state operation.