Ahmedabad: The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) carried out a major operation in Rajasthan’s Bhiwadi, where officers raided a factory unit and seized 22 kg of illegally manufactured psychotropic substances, along with alprazolam precursor chemicals. The ATS has arrested three accused, all residents of Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the case.

According to officials, the joint raid was conducted on December 28, 2025, at APL Pharma, located at Plot No. H1/13(D), RIICO Industrial Area, Kaharani, Bhiwadi, Tehsil Tapukara, District Khairthal–Tijara, Rajasthan. The premises fall under the jurisdiction of Bhiwadi Phase-3. The operation was carried out in coordination with the Bhiwadi SOG (Special Operations Group) and Jaipur Police.

During the search, the team recovered a stock of psychotropic material reportedly being produced without requisite licences, as well as chemicals suspected to be used in the preparation of alprazolam-based drugs. The seized material has been taken into custody for forensic examination, and further investigation is underway to trace the supply chain and possible inter-state links.

The accused have been identified as Anshul Shastri, Akhilesh Maurya, and Krishna Yadav. ATS officials said more arrests are likely as the probe progresses. Further legal proceedings are being initiated under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, officials added. DeshGujarat