NCB seizes 49.35 kg of ephedrine, 2 arrested

The suspects have been identified as M Mydeen and K Meeran. They were allegedly engaged in concealing drugs in specially made cavities in kitchen utensils and exporting the same to foreign countries. The duo are also accused in the seizure of 4.35 kg of methaqualone by the NCB-Hyderabad.

Methaqualone seizure

Acting on intelligence developed during the investigation into the methaqualone seizure by the NCB-Hyderabad at a courier centre, the NCB-Chennai apprehended the duo with the ephedrine in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu on January 15. The seized ephedrine was concealed in small packets hidden in kitchen utensils.

Jt Bengaluru-Chennai effort

The NCB acknowledges the efforts of Amit Ghawate (Zonal Director, Bengaluru), Bruno A (Zonal Director, Chennai), and other officers associated with the case at the NCB-Bengaluru and NCB-Chennai Zonal Units.

Controlled substances like ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are chemicals which have a legitimate use as intermediaries for manufacturing detergents, perfumes, dyes, etc.

Illegal uses

However, once diverted, they can also be used for the manufacture of amphetamine- type stimulants (ATS). In the past, seizures of these controlled substances have been made by the NCB- Bengaluru where the contraband was intended for South East Asian destinations. Of late, it has been found that these controlled substances are also being illegally exported to African destinations, especially South Africa, and to Australia, where the possibility of clandestine production of ATS cannot be ruled out.