The Bharuch Special Operations Group (SOG) recently executed a successful drug bust, seizing heroin and apprehending key suspects. Here are the full details of the operation:
The Operation & Seizure
- Location: The raid took place near the Ankleshwar GIDC ST Depot in Bharuch district.
- Quantity Seized: Police recovered 58.11 grams of high-quality heroin.
- Estimated Value: The market value of the seized drugs is approximately ₹11.62 lakh.
- Other Items Recovered: Along with the narcotics, police seized small ziplock bags (used for retail selling), silver foil, mobile phones, and railway tickets.
The Arrests
Two primary suspects were caught at the scene before they could leave for their native state:
- Rakesh Mandal
- Dipak Singh
Both individuals are natives of Bihar. During the investigation, police identified a third accomplice named Santosh, who is currently being pursued.
Criminal Background
The investigation revealed that both Rakesh Mandal and Dipak Singh are history-sheeters with a significant criminal record:
- They were previously involved and arrested for a high-profile ₹44 lakh bank robbery in Ankleshwar back in 2022.
- Authorities believe they were attempting to establish a drug distribution network in Bharuch, targeting local industrial workers and youth.
Legal Action
The Bharuch SOG has booked the suspects under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. They are currently in police custody as officials work to trace the original source of the heroin and determine if there are larger interstate links.