In one of Uttar Pradesh’s biggest pharmaceutical crime crackdowns, authorities have uncovered a massive racket involving the purchase and sale of 8.9 million bottles of banned codeine-based cough syrup, valued at nearly ₹100 crore. Investigators have identified Shubham Jayaswal as the alleged kingpin behind the illegal network that operated across several districts.
The Food Safety and Drug Administration, along with state intelligence units, revealed that 28 medicine traders were part of the supply chain that diverted restricted cough syrup into illegal markets between 2023 and 2025. These bottles were reportedly sold for recreational and addictive use in multiple cities.
Fake Firms, Fake Employees, Real Profit
According to officials, the syndicate used fake firms, forged documents, and non-existent employees to procure cough syrup in huge quantities.
Under the guise of working in a saree shop, one accused used fabricated identity papers to illegally obtain 2.14 lakh bottles alone.
Records show that the group procured stock from pharmaceutical distributors in Varanasi, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Mau, Jaunpur, Pratapgarh, and Ballia, then circulated it among smaller traders for quick cash profits.
How the Racket Operated
◆Massive bulk orders were placed using fake drug licenses
◆Stocks were moved through cash transactions to avoid digital trails
◆Bottles were sold at inflated rates to peddlers and illegal suppliers
◆The network expanded across eastern UP through trusted middlemen
Authorities stated that many of the accused deliberately avoided carrying mobile phones to escape surveillance.
28 Drug Traders Under Scanner, Kingpin Identified
A case has been registered against all 28 traders under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
The police believe Shubham Jayaswal played a central role in coordinating purchases, forging documents, and arranging transportation.
A detailed financial investigation is now underway to trace the profits earned through the illegal sale of controlled substances.
A Multi-Crore Illegal Empire Built on Addiction
Officials say the racket not only caused a major public health risk, but also fueled substance abuse among youth. With the crackdown gaining momentum, nearby states may also come under scrutiny for similar illegal supply chains.
This case is now being called one of the largest cough syrup trafficking operations uncovered in Uttar Pradesh in recent years.
