UAE Gang Operated Drug Network Through Chennai: DRI
Major Drug Trafficking Network Linked to Dubai Kingpin Exposed; ₹50.65 Crore Worth Methamphetamine Recovered
DRI Busts International Drug Ring Operating via Chennai; 10.13 kg Meth Seized, Six Arrested
CHENNAI: The Directorate of Revenue Investigation (TRI) on Thursday dealt a major blow to an international drug trafficking network with the arrest of six persons in Chengalpat near Chennai, where 10.13 kg of methamphetamine worth Rs 50.65 crore was seized. With its Kingpin operating out of Dubai, the company also finds that the network is far-reaching.
The fact that the individual has been planning drug smuggling from Myanmar to various European countries and the US via Chennai for over a year marks the agency’s first successful foray into the deeper layers of the syndicate after four failed attempts. In the last two months.
The breakthrough came on Thursday when DRI officials, acting on a tip-off, intercepted the vehicle near Paranur toll booth. Upon investigation, they found 10 parcels of methamphetamine, each weighing approximately 1kg, hidden in a specially constructed compartment under the back seat. Three residents were immediately arrested and charged under the NDPS Act.
During the interrogation of the three, it was revealed that they were working under the direction of Vijay, a businessman from Coimbatore. Following this, the TRI arrested Vijay who confessed to receiving the drugs from Thoothukudi-based shipping company owner and fishermen union official Reynolds Villavarayar. Later, Reynolds was arrested at a lodge in Egmore.
Suresh from Vyasarpadi was arrested on information given by Reynolds. All six have been remanded in judicial custody and Rs 1.30 crore, believed to be proceeds of drug peddling, has been seized under the NDPS Act.
The DRI found that the trio caught in the car were low-level operatives working for Vijay, who along with Renault and Suresh formed the second layer of the network. A Dubai-based kingpin orders the drugs from Reynolds, who along with Suresh smuggles them from Myanmar to Chennai, transporting them to the southern districts and eventually to Sri Lanka.
DRI is continuing its investigation to nab others in the network.
