Nagpur Reports 333% Surge in MD Seizures Amid Drug Crisis
Narcotics seizures in Nagpur have skyrocketed, with MD recoveries reaching alarming levels in 2026.
MD seizures rose from 3kg in 2025 to 13kg in 2026, a 333% increase.
Arrests under the NDPS Act surged by 237%, totaling 890 arrests this year.
The total value of seized narcotics approached ₹10 crore, marking a 197% rise from last year.
In a troubling trend, Nagpur has experienced a dramatic increase in narcotics seizures in 2026, with the total value of confiscated drugs nearing ₹10 crore by October. The most alarming statistic is the surge in mephedrone (MD) seizures, which escalated from 3 kilograms in the same period last year to approximately 13 kilograms this year, reflecting a staggering 333% rise. This spike has raised significant concerns among law enforcement and public health officials alike.
The backdrop to this surge includes a 42% increase in cases related to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, with 735 cases registered this year compared to 519 in 2025. The number of arrests has also seen a dramatic rise, jumping from 264 to 890, which translates to a 237% increase. These figures underscore the escalating challenges faced by police in combating drug-related crimes despite their efforts to curb the issue.
According to Deepak Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime), the value of narcotics seized has skyrocketed from ₹3.35 crore last year to ₹9.96 crore this year, marking a 197% increase. The significant rise in MD recoveries suggests the existence of extensive interstate supply networks. A notable seizure involved MD worth ₹1.5 crore at a flat rented by a gang member, which was traced back to Rajasthan for distribution in Nagpur. Investigators are currently working to uncover further connections within this supply chain.
The increasing availability of MD has sparked concerns regarding its potential impact on the youth, particularly as the drug is often linked to rave parties frequented by young people. However, a senior police officer cautioned that while seizure numbers are rising, they do not necessarily indicate a corresponding increase in drug consumption among youngsters. Comprehensive public health data and surveys are essential to accurately assess the situation.
Moving forward, officials emphasize that while the rise in seizures indicates enhanced enforcement efforts, it does not automatically correlate with a rise in drug inflow. Continuous intelligence-driven operations, prevention initiatives, and treatment support will be vital in dismantling these supply networks and addressing the broader issue of drug abuse in the community.
