Dehradun, Arunoday Times
In a major breakthrough under Uttarakhand’s “Drugs-Free Devbhoomi” campaign, the Special Task Force (STF) and Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) have arrested a key associate of a Tramadol trafficking network and the operator of Shri Siddhbali Pharma Store in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh.
The arrest is linked to the seizure of 18,000 banned Tramadol capsules recovered on May 11, 2026, from the Manglaur area of Haridwar district. Following the seizure, a case was registered under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act, and an extensive investigation was launched.
During the probe, STF officials discovered that large quantities of restricted Tramadol capsules were being supplied to Uttarakhand through Shri Siddhbali Pharma Store. Investigators found that the capsules were sourced from various pharmaceutical companies and distributed through a network operating in Dehradun and Haridwar.
The arrested accused has been identified as **Sachin Manihal**, son of Suresh, a resident of Janakpuri, Muzaffarnagar, and operator of Shri Siddhbali Pharma Store. Investigation revealed that between January and May 2026, nearly ₹35 lakh was paid to a pharmaceutical company for the purchase of Tramadol capsules, indicating a large-scale illegal trade.
According to STF, the accused admitted during questioning that he was procuring and supplying restricted Tramadol capsules. A mobile phone allegedly used in the illegal transactions and supply network has been recovered from his possession.
Senior Superintendent of Police, STF, **Ajay Singh**, stated that investigations are underway to identify the accused’s financial assets and trace both forward and backward links of the drug trafficking network. The role of other individuals involved in the racket is also being examined.
Appealing to the public, SSP Ajay Singh urged citizens to stay away from drugs and immediately report any information related to narcotics trafficking to the nearest police station or STF/ANTF. He reiterated that the campaign against drug smuggling in Uttarakhand will continue with full force.
