Luxury Cars Used for Narcotics Trafficking, Celebrities Summoned in Major ANC Probe

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Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) has recently summoned Shraddha Kapoor’s brother Siddhanth Kapoor to Mumbai’s Ghatkopar in connection with a Rs. 252 crore drug case. Orhan Awatramani, aka ‘Orry’, a popular social media influencer and a socialite, was also called for questioning.

A drug trafficker recently deported from the United Arab Emirates disclosed the celebrities’ names during the investigation. The drug peddler is identified as Mohammed Salim Sohail Shaikh.

Details on the Rs. 252 Crore Mephedrone Seizure

The case traces back to a large seizure of mephedrone, a synthetic stimulant. Mumbai Police uncovered an illegal manufacturing facility in Sangli, Maharashtra, in March 2024. Officers seized 126.14 kg of mephedrone, or MD, valued at about Rs. 252 crore. The facility was allegedly controlled by wanted drug trafficker Salim Dola and his son Taher.

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According to investigations, raw materials were supplied through a Surat-based associate, and drugs were transported in luxury cars, like Mercedes and BMWs, to avoid suspicion. Profits were reportedly sent overseas using illicit hawala channels. The operational network began to surface after an arrest in Nagpada in August 2022. This initial arrest led to multiple linked detentions and the eventual Sangli factory bust.

A police official, as mentioned in a report by Hindustan Times, read, “The raw material required to make MD in Sangli was provided by Khubbawala from Surat. From Sangli, the bulk of the manufactured drugs would be sent to Mira Road.”

Key Accused's Claims and Celebrity Summons

The key accused, Mohammed Salim Mohammed Suhail Shaikh, made several claims during interrogation. Shaikh, also known as 'Lavish,' was recently deported from Dubai and arrested. He is an alleged drug trafficker and an aide of fugitive gangster Salim Dola.

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Shaikh claimed he organized lavish, drug-fueled parties in India and abroad. These events were allegedly attended by numerous Bollywood celebrities and public figures. The list of names included actors Nora Fatehi, Shraddha Kapoor, and Siddhant Kapoor.

Film producers Abbas-Mustan, influencer Orry, rapper Loka, and a politician were also named. Shaikh noted that underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim's nephew, Alishah Parkar, was also present.

The Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) ordered both Siddhant Kapoor and Orhan Awatramani. However, the ANC specifically highlighted that a summons for questioning does not imply guilt. The agency further added that investigators are currently just cross-checking these claims for verification purposes.

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