Pune’s Hidden Web: Authorities Uncover Multi-Crore Drug Distribution Network
Pune, 11th October 2023: A shocking revelation came to light as the anti-narcotics team in Pune informed the court about a drug smuggling operation involving Lalit Patil, his brother Bhushan Patil, and accomplice Abhishek Vilas Balkawade. Lalit, who has escaped from Sassoon Hospital while under treatment, was allegedly involved in the distribution of the drug mephedrone across Maharashtra and other states.
Mephedrone Worth Over Rs 2 Crore Seized
The anti-narcotics team seized mephedrone worth Rs 2 crore 14 lakh, supplied by a canteen worker at Sassoon Hospital. Before distribution, a sample of the drug was given to Lalit’s accomplice, Subhash Mandal. CCTV footage obtained during the investigation has revealed a network of drug peddlers connected to the accused.
Arrests Made Near Nepal Border
Bhushan Patil and Abhishek Vilas Balkawade were arrested on Tuesday, October 10, near the Nepal border. They were produced in Pune court in the afternoon today. The data on their mobile phones had been formatted, but cyber experts are in the process of retrieving it. The police are also investigating the extent of immovable and movable property amassed by the accused through drug sales.
Remand Extended for Thorough Investigation
Public Prosecutor Neelam Yadav-Ithape argued for a 14-day police custody for the accused to conduct a comprehensive investigation. Judicial Magistrate (First Class) AC Birajdar granted the request, remanding the accused to police custody until October 16.
Key Areas of Investigation
The ongoing investigation aims to uncover:
- The source of raw materials for manufacturing mephedrone
- The extent of property accumulated by the accused from drug sales
- The possibility of a larger national and international drug racket
- Locations of any factories or godowns used for manufacturing mephedrone
- The whereabouts of Lalit Patil, who remains at large
