NCB unearths secret Alprazolam manufacturing unit at Bidar; Hyd-based businessman NV Reddy arrested

Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) intercepted a mini-truck in the Kolhar industrial area in Bidar, Karnataka and seized 91.5 kg of contraband Alprazolam.

The drugs were being manufactured at Indu Drugs Pvt Ltd, Bidar. During the search, NCB recovered Alprazolam powder. Simultaneously, searches were conducted at the Hyderabad residence of NV Reddy, the owner of the factory. An amount of Rs 62 lakh, which is the proceeds from the sale of contraband, was seized, NCB said.

The seizure follows months of surveillance across Karnataka, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.

YV Reddy tried to flee the spot but was apprehended after a hot chase by the NCB team. Five persons including S Bhaskar, YV Reddy, S Menon, Amruth, and NV Reddy, all residents of Telangana, have been apprehended in this connection. S Bhaskar is a chemicals expert.

Alprazolam, sold under the brand name Xanax, is most commonly used in the short-term management of anxiety disorders, specifically panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. It is also trafficked for 'recreational' usage worldwide.