ED Launches Massive Raids in Codeine Cough Syrup Case Across UP and Other States

Lucknow/Varanasi, December 12, 2025: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has launched a major crackdown in the ongoing investigation into the illegal trade of codeine-laced cough syrup. Simultaneous raids were conducted at around 25 locations, including Lucknow, Varanasi, Jaunpur, Saharanpur, Ranchi, and Ahmedabad.

Key Developments
The probe into the illicit cough syrup syndicate continues to uncover startling revelations. The mastermind, Shubham Jaiswal, remains at large, reportedly having fled to Dubai. However, his father, Bhola Jaiswal, has already been arrested. In the latest operation on Friday, ED teams raided multiple locations at approximately 7 a.m., including the opulent residence of Alok Singh in Lucknow. Singh, a former STF constable and close associate of former MP Dhananjay Singh, was also among those targeted.

Sources reported that during the Lucknow raids, ED officials thoroughly searched the premises, seizing important documents, mobile phones, and files. Other locations in LDA Colony, Transport Nagar, and Sarojini Nagar were also inspected.

Wider Impact and Detentions
The illegal trade of narcotic cough syrup reportedly extends beyond India to Nepal, Bangladesh, and other countries, prompting a multi-agency investigation involving UP Police, STF, SIT, and ED. Alok Singh and Amit Singh Tata have been placed under a 55-hour police remand, which continues until December 14, and are currently held in Lucknow Jail.

So far, around 32 people, including prominent accused such as Alok Singh, Amit Tata, and Vibhor Rana of Abbott Healthcare Pvt Ltd, have been arrested. ED raids also targeted Vibhor and his brother Vishal’s properties in connection with the case.

The ongoing investigation continues to unravel a vast syndicate that has been profiting from the illicit manufacture and distribution of narcotic cough syrup across borders, with law enforcement agencies leaving no stone unturned in their crackdown.