In a major breakthrough, the State Police Crime Branch has arrested Deep Prakash Gupta, the alleged mastermind behind the sensational Jirania Phensedyl seizure case that had rocked Tripura last year. Gupta, a resident of Delhi, was traced to Uttar Pradesh after sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering, following which he was brought to Tripura and produced before a court on Wednesday.
The arrest is being seen as a turning point in the investigation into the massive consignment of Phensedyl cough syrup recovered from a railway wagon at Jirania. The seizure had exposed what police described as a well-organised and international drug trafficking network operating across state and national borders.
With Gupta’s arrest, the number of accused held in the case has risen to four. Among those previously arrested is Mantanu Saha, who was taken into custody upon his return from Dubai. During searches at his residence, Crime Branch officials recovered several incriminating documents. A subsequent raid at his warehouse near the Amtali Bypass led to the seizure of additional materials believed to be linked to the smuggling operation.
However, investigators continue to face significant challenges in bringing all suspects to justice. Apu Das of Barmura, identified as a key player in the racket, is believed to have fled to Chattogram in Bangladesh. Sources allege that he received protection from certain police personnel, Border Security Force officials, and even a sitting legislator, complicating efforts to apprehend him.
In another related development, Crime Branch officials raided the residence of Apu Ranjan Das in Boxanagar on November 11, 2025, seizing important documents. Despite this, he also managed to evade arrest and remains absconding.
Officials believe that Gupta’s interrogation will provide crucial insights into the cross-border dimensions of the racket, including supply routes, financial transactions, and the involvement of other key operatives. The Crime Branch has intensified its crackdown, focusing on dismantling the wider network and identifying individuals who may have facilitated or shielded the traffickers.
Authorities said the investigation has entered a critical phase, with Gupta’s arrest expected to open new leads and strengthen the fight against organised drug trafficking in the region.
