Nagpur: In a major anti-drug operation, the Nagpur Crime Branch's NDPS Cell arrested two persons and seized 52 grams of MD (Mephedrone) drugs along with other valuables worth ₹9.04 lakh during a raid in Sangharsh Nagar on Wathoda Ring Road.

Acting on a tip-off about a drug deal, the NDPS team laid a trap and apprehended Vijay Nandlal Rahangdale, a resident of Yashodhara Nagar, and Shahbaz Firoz Shah of Gittikhadan. During the operation, police recovered 52 grams of MD drugs, three mobile phones, a moped, and cash.

Investigations revealed that Rahangdale is a history-sheeter with 15 criminal cases registered against him, including murder, robbery, dacoity, and theft. Police records also show that he had previously been booked twice under the NDPS Act.

During questioning, Rahangdale allegedly confessed to purchasing the narcotics from an absconding drug supplier, while Shahbaz had reportedly arrived at the spot to buy the drugs. Police have named another suspect in the case and launched a search operation to trace him.

The action was carried out as part of a special drive against organized crime and drug trafficking being conducted under the supervision of Crime Branch officials.

Both accused have been handed over to Bhandewadi Police for further investigation. Authorities are now working to uncover the larger drug supply network and identify other individuals involved in the illegal trade.