CHENNAI: In a significant crackdown on narcotics, the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit (ANIU) of the Greater Chennai Police has arrested three individuals and seized Rs 27.5 lakh in cash, a Fortuner SUV, and drugs. The operation was launched following the arrest of another peddler in Tirumangalam a day earlier.
The chain of events began on November 19, when, based on a tip-off, ANIU and Tirumangalam police officials apprehended a man identified as Dhyaneshwaran (26) from Park Road. A search revealed that he was in possession of four LSD stamps and two mobile phones intended for sale. A case was registered at the Tirumangalam police station, and after interrogation, he was remanded to judicial custody.
It was during his interrogation that a major breakthrough emerged. He reportedly revealed details of his suppliers and a wider network involved in the sale and consumption of drugs. Acting on this intelligence, a team led by ANIU Inspector T Jani Cellappa launched follow-up action.
On Thursday, the police secured three absconding accused:
Sarath (30), an MBA graduate from London and Managing Director of Kalpana Furniture Products Pvt. Ltd. in Vanagaram. No drugs were found in his possession.
Srinivasan (27), a B.Com., LL.B. graduate, was found in possession of approximately 10 grams of OG ganja.
Sarbudheen Mohammad Masthan (44), a B.Sc. graduate. A search of his car led to the seizure of Rs 27.5 lakh in cash and a Fortuner vehicle. Two mobile phones were also confiscated.
The total seizure from the trio includes Rs 27.5 lakh, one Fortuner SUV, 10 grams of OG ganja, and four mobile phones. All three were brought to the Tirumangalam police station for further investigation to determine the extent of their network.
In a related development, sources confirmed that the police also picked up Hari Prasad, a member of the election strategy team working for the AIADMK, for questioning. While the exact nature of his connection to the drug racket remains under investigation, his detention adds a political dimension to the ongoing probe.