Tripura Crime Branch arrests the alleged mastermind in the Jirania Phensedyl seizure case, exposing a vast drug trafficking network with cross-border links. The breakthrough signals a major push against organized narcotics smuggling in the region.
The State Police Crime Branch has arrested Deep Prakash Gupta, the alleged mastermind behind the high-profile Jirania Phensedyl seizure case. Gupta, a resident of Delhi, was traced to Uttar Pradesh after months of surveillance and intelligence coordination. He was brought to Tripura under tight security and produced before a competent court on Wednesday.
The arrest marks a decisive turning point in the investigation into one of the largest cough syrup seizures in the state’s history. The case dates back to last year, when police recovered a massive consignment of Phensedyl cough syrup from a railway wagon at Jirania. The seizure sent shockwaves through the region and exposed what investigators described as a well-organized, international drug trafficking network with deep logistical and financial roots.
According to Crime Branch officials, Gupta played a central role in planning, financing, and coordinating the movement of the illegal consignment. Preliminary findings suggest that the racket exploited railway logistics and cross-border routes to move controlled substances, using a network of intermediaries, warehouses, and forged documentation to evade detection.
So far, four accused have been arrested in connection with the case. Among them is Mantanu Saha, who was detained immediately after returning from Dubai. Investigators recovered several incriminating documents from his residence, pointing to financial transactions and communication links with other members of the syndicate. Acting on these leads, the Crime Branch conducted a raid at a warehouse near the Amtali Bypass, where additional materials connected to the illegal trade were seized.
Despite these developments, the investigation has not been without challenges. A key suspect, Apu Das of Barmura, is believed to have fled to Chattogram in Bangladesh. Sources within the investigation allege that he may have enjoyed protection from certain individuals, including police personnel, BSF members, and even a sitting legislator. These allegations have added a sensitive dimension to the probe and complicated efforts to bring all accused to justice.
In a related operation, Crime Branch officials raided the residence of Apu Ranjan Das in Boxanagar on November 11, 2025, recovering important documents believed to be linked to the trafficking network. However, he too managed to evade arrest and remains at large.
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Senior officers believe that Gupta’s interrogation will be crucial in uncovering the full scale of the operation. Investigators are hopeful that his questioning will reveal details about cross-border links, funding channels, and other high-profile players involved in the racket. The Crime Branch has intensified its crackdown, focusing not only on traffickers but also on identifying those who may have facilitated or shielded the illegal trade.
Authorities stated that the investigation is entering a critical phase. With the arrest of the alleged mastermind, officials are confident that deeper connections will soon come to light, strengthening the state’s resolve to dismantle organized drug trafficking networks and ensure accountability at every level.
