Date:06/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/06/stories/2006090614590300.htm

New Delhi

Ephedrine seized

Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI: In the biggest ever haul of its kind here in the Capital, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has seized 550 kg of ephedrine worth crores of rupees at Okhla in South Delhi. It claimed to have arrested two persons in this connection and recovered Rs.50 lakhs in cash from them.

While the NCB officials refused to divulge details of the seizure claiming that it would harm investigations, it is learnt that the consignment was destined for Canada. It had been stocked in a godown at Okhla for further transportation. The NCB officials are looking for the others involved in the ephedrine manufacturing and supply. "Raids are being carried out for them," said a senior NCB official.

A few days ago, the South-West Delhi police had arrested four persons, including a Canadian national of Indian origin, in connection with the recovery of 100 kg of ephedrine. That consignment was also headed for Canada. Investigations into that case revealed that there was a high demand for ephedrine in Canada for manufacturing of Amphetamine Type Stimulants (ATS) like Ecstasy and Ice.