In a significant victory against international drug trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) has successfully dismantled a major drug smuggling network operating from Chennai. On Thursday, the DRI apprehended six individuals and seized 10.13 kg of methamphetamine, valued at 50.65 crore. This operation marks a major breakthrough for the agency, as it signifies their successful penetration into the deeper layers of the syndicate after four previous failed attempts in the past two months.
The DRI’s operation began with a tip-off that led them to intercept a vehicle near the Paranur toll plaza. Upon inspection, they discovered 10 parcels of methamphetamine, each weighing approximately 1 kg, concealed in a specially constructed cavity under the back seat of the car. The three occupants of the vehicle were promptly arrested and charged under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Interrogation of the arrested individuals revealed that they were working under the instructions of a man named Vijay, a businessman from Coimbatore. Following this lead, the DRI apprehended Vijay, who admitted to receiving the drugs from Renold Villavarayar, a shipping firm owner and fishermen association official based in Tuticorin. Renold was subsequently tracked down and arrested at a lodge in Egmore. Further investigation led to the arrest of Suresh from Vysarpadi, based on information provided by Renold. All six individuals have been remanded in judicial custody, and 1.30 crore, believed to be proceeds from drug sales, was seized from them under the NDPS Act.
The DRI’s investigation revealed that the three individuals apprehended in the car were low-level operatives working for Vijay, who, along with Renold and Suresh, formed the second layer of the network. The mastermind behind the operation is believed to be a Dubai-based kingpin who orchestrates the smuggling of drugs from Myanmar to Chennai, then transports them to southern districts and ultimately to Sri Lanka. Renold is responsible for receiving the drugs from Myanmar and transporting them to Chennai, while Suresh aids in the smuggling operation. The Dubai-based kingpin is believed to have been directing this operation for over a year, supplying drugs to various European countries and the United States.
The DRI is currently continuing its investigation to apprehend other individuals involved in the network. This successful operation highlights the agency’s commitment to combating international drug trafficking and disrupting criminal networks operating across borders.
