ED Raids Across Multiple States in Illegal Cough Syrup Money Laundering Probe
ED Launches Major Multi-State Raids
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday carried out large-scale raids across several states in connection with an illegal cough syrup trade racket operating from Uttar Pradesh. Searches began around 8 AM and targeted 25 locations spread across Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaunpur and Saharanpur, along with Ranchi and Ahmedabad. The operation forms part of a wider money laundering probe.
Case Linked to 30 UP Police FIRs
The investigation gained momentum after the ED reviewed nearly 30 FIRs filed earlier by Uttar Pradesh Police. These cases highlighted widespread misuse of codeine-based cough syrups (CBCS), illegal manufacturing units and suspected cross-border trafficking, especially to Bangladesh. Officials estimate that the racket may have generated illegal proceeds worth nearly ₹1,000 crore.
Main Accused Reportedly Fled Abroad
The searches mainly targeted premises linked to absconding accused Shubham Jaiswal. Investigators believe he left for Dubai to evade arrest. His associates, identified as Alok Singh, Amit Singh and several cough syrup manufacturers, are also under scrutiny. The ED is examining financial documents, digital records and supply chains to uncover the full scale of the network.
UP Police Arrest 32 Individuals
The Uttar Pradesh Police have already arrested 32 people in connection with the racket and formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to intensify the probe. Jaiswal’s father has been taken into custody, and multiple suppliers and transporters have been booked. Agencies are now working together to trace the money trail and identify additional beneficiaries.
Raids Intensify in Saharanpur
In Saharanpur, ED teams inspected several properties located in Shastri Nagar and Kapil Vihar. These sites are linked to Abbott Healthcare Private Limited owner, and Shri Ram Sena chief Vibhor Rana. Investigators claim that Rana supplied large quantities of codeine syrup through his company, B.N. Pharmaceuticals. Both Vibhor and his brother Vishal were arrested on November 12.
Health Concerns Trigger Nationwide Crackdown
Authorities intensified action after reports emerged that thousands of children had fallen ill due to consuming illegally manufactured cough syrup. The incident raised serious public health concerns and prompted enforcement bodies to launch a nationwide crackdown. The Rana brothers’ arrest and today’s widespread raids reflect the expanding scope of the probe.
More Leads Expected as Probe Expands
Officials expect new evidence to emerge as seized documents and financial records undergo examination. The operation marks one of the most significant steps taken to dismantle illegal pharmaceutical networks operating across India. Follow for more updates, FM News.
