Vapi: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) has arrested Mehul Thakur, the primary accused in the Vapi drug factory case. Thakur, who had been evading authorities for a considerable period, was apprehended in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, in a joint operation with the Uttar Pradesh Police.

Following the exposure of the drug manufacturing unit in October 2025, Thakur fled India, travelling through Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Bihar before taking refuge in Nepal. While in Nepal, he stayed in a rented property with co-accused Vivek Rai. The ATS moved to arrest him after receiving a tip-off that he had travelled to Varanasi to perform a puja at a temple and attend a relative’s engagement ceremony.

Investigations indicate that Thakur was the main financier and mastermind behind the operation. His alleged role included funding the procurement of essential chemicals required for drug production, providing the location—specifically a bungalow in Vapi where the factory operated—and claiming the largest share of profits from the illicit trade.

The factory was capable of producing high-value narcotics, and during the initial raid, authorities seized drugs worth more than ₹30 crore. The investigation further revealed that the manufactured substances were supplied to various states across India and were also smuggled abroad.

Thakur is not a first-time offender; he was previously arrested in connection with the murder of corporator Salim Memon. Following his latest arrest, a court has granted his remand until February 25. Two other suspects have already been arrested in the case, and officials expect further revelations as Thakur’s interrogation continues. DeshGujarat