In a landmark operation, the Uttar Pradesh police executed the largest crackdown against drug mafias in Pratapgarh district to date. The Manikpur police uncovered a syndicate that orchestrated a drug operation right from behind bars. Through this well-coordinated raid, approximately ₹2.01 crore in cash, 6.075 kg of cannabis, and 577 grams of heroin were confiscated. The counting of the seized money intriguingly stretched over 22 hours. This marks the biggest cash recovery linked to a drug case in police history.
The Officer Who Snared Ateeq-Ashraf Delivers a Mighty Strike
This substantial operation was ably led by Superintendent of Police Deepak Bhukar, renowned for his stringent actions against mafia lords Ateeq Ahmed and Ashraf in Prayagraj. Under his leadership, the police conducted a decisive raid on the hideout of imprisoned smuggler Rajesh Mishra. In this unexpected raid, the gang leader Reena Mishra, along with her son Vinayak Mishra, daughter Komal Mishra, and relatives Ajit Kumar Mishra and Yash Mishra, were apprehended.
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A Smuggling Empire Run from Prison
Investigations revealed that Rajesh Mishra, already imprisoned, directed the drug operations through phone calls or visits with family members. This extensive network encompassed the village and neighboring areas. The police indicated the syndicate's active involvement in cannabis and heroin smuggling, reaping considerable illegal profits and amassing a fortune worth millions.
Source: aajtak
Suspects Found Hiding During the Raid
Upon arriving at Rajesh Mishra's home in Mundipur, Manikpur, the police found Reena Mishra barricading the door from inside. Upon gaining entry, five individuals were caught attempting to conceal drugs in black bags. A thorough search yielded heaps of cash and narcotics. Police noted the gang's long-term involvement, turning their home into a drug smuggling sanctuary.
Fake Documents Facilitated Rajesh Mishra's Bail
The police unveiled a major scam wherein Reena Mishra and her son Vinayak Mishra extracted false bail for Rajesh Mishra using fraudulent documents. They presented counterfeit papers under another name to the court, securing bail through deception. They now face charges under various sections including BNS 319(2), 318(4), 338, 336(3), 340(2), 3(5), 61(2), 234, and 235.
Over ₹3 Crore Assets Previously Confiscated
This isn't the first incident. Earlier, property worth over ₹3,06,26,895.50 owned by Rajesh and Reena Mishra was confiscated. They are tracked with multiple serious charges, including the Gangster and NDPS Acts. Their son Vinayak Mishra previously got arrested under NDPS-related offenses.
Manikpur Police's Momentous Operation
Under the guidance of SP Deepak Bhukar, this operation stands as the most extensive action against drug mafias at the Manikpur station level. The police asserted that the syndicate operated an interstate drug supply network, with its web extending across neighboring districts. The estimated total worth of confiscated items is over ₹3 crore.
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Police's Stern Warning – Rigorous Action Against Drug Syndicates Will Continue
SP Deepak Bhukar affirmed that this crackdown aligns with the campaign to dismantle organized crime and drug networks. He assured ongoing rigorous action against such criminals, noting that the police are scrutinizing the entire smuggling network, expecting more arrests soon.
Detailed Record of the Seizures
Cash: ₹2 crore 1 lakh 55 thousand 345
Cannabis: 6.075 kg (worth ₹3 lakh 3 thousand 750)
Heroin: 577 grams (worth ₹1 crore 15 lakh 40 thousand)
Total Estimated Seizure: Over ₹3 crore
List of Apprehended Suspects
Reena Mishra (Age 40) – Wife of Rajesh Mishra, Resident of Mundipur, Police Station Manikpur, Pratapgarh
Vinayak Mishra (Age 19) – Son of Rajesh Mishra, Resident of Mundipur
Komal Mishra (Age 20) – Daughter of Rajesh Mishra, Resident of Mundipur
Yash Mishra (Age 19) – Son of Ajit Kumar Mishra, Resident of Mundipur
Ajit Kumar Mishra (Age 32) – Son of Pawan Kumar Mishra, Resident of Mundipur
Police's Persistent Vigil on Drug Cartels
The police assert that the search continues for others linked to this drug network. Manikpur Police and district administration are actively investigating all assets associated with the syndicate. Officials believe this operation significantly fractures the district's narcotics trafficking network, with further actions forthcoming.
