India, Nov. 6 -- The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI)'s Mumbai unit has busted a clandestine Alprazolam manufacturing unit in Valsad, Gujarat, and seized illicit stock valued at Rs.22 crore. Alprazolam, a psychotropic drug regulated under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders.

According to DRI officials, the illegal factory was operated by an inter-state network, and the drug produced there was intended to be supplied to certain suspects in Telangana for allegedly mixing with toddy. The operation was codenamed 'White Cauldron'.

Acting on specific intelligence, DRI teams maintained discreet surveillance before raiding the premises on Tuesday. The se...