Central Bureau of Narcotics destroys secret lab manufacturing mephedrone in Mau

A secret lab manufacturing mephedrone (MD) in the Tajpur Industrial Area of Mau, Uttar Pradesh, has been destroyed by the Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN). According to PIB Delhi, this action was carried out under 'Operation Vajra 3.0', delivering a major blow to an interstate synthetic drug network.

Based on precise intelligence received by the CBN MP unit, a joint team of the CBN MP unit and UP unit conducted a coordinated operation on 08.11.2026. During this operation, the team successfully identified and destroyed an active drug production facility.

During the action, a total of 11.7 kg of mephedrone (MD) found to be in process at various stages was recovered. Additionally, 20.9 kg of 2-bromo-4-methylpropiophenone, a key precursor chemical used to manufacture mephedrone, was seized. The team also recovered 3.5 kg of acetic anhydride and approximately 119.9 kg/litre of various chemicals, solvents, and processing reagents, including dichloromethane, hydrochloric acid, sodium bicarbonate, sodium chloride, and organic amines.

The entire structure of the lab was also destroyed during the operation. This included industrial grinders and mixers, steel tanks and vessels, heating equipment, glass reaction and distillation apparatus, temperature measuring devices, voltage balancers, and other equipment as well as personal protective equipment. All these tools were being used illegally to manufacture synthetic drugs.

Two individuals involved in this illegal production network have been arrested under the NDPS Act, 1985. Further investigation is underway in this case to ascertain the interstate network, the source of precursor chemicals, financial connections, and distribution routes. The entire seizure and subsequent proceedings have been conducted as per the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985, and prescribed legal procedures.

During the year 2026, the CBN has exposed six secret labs so far, seizing 130.2 kg of mephedrone and 1465.4 kg/litre of precursor chemicals. Twenty suspects have been arrested in connection with these cases.

The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) has made continuous efforts to combat the illegal drug trade and the production of narcotic substances. It has remained active in preventing the misuse of precursor chemicals and breaking interstate trafficking syndicates.