Nagpur: In a major crackdown on narcotics, the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) squad nabbed a drug peddler in Wathoda on Thursday and seized mephedrone (MD) powder worth ₹5.9 lakh, along with a scooter, mobile phone, and debit card.

The operation was carried out between 2.30 am and 4 am on September 11 near Rakesh Pan Palace, Umred Road, Sakardara-Wathoda stretch. Acting on suspicion, police intercepted a man moving on a scooter without a number plate. Upon frisking in the presence of panch witnesses, officials recovered 102 grams of mephedrone powder and other valuables.

The arrested accused has been identified as Rafiq Khan (36), a resident of Raut Nagar, Wathoda, who already has multiple cases registered against him under Sections 302 and 392 of IPC along with other offences.

Meanwhile, two other accused — Firoz Khan alias Haddi (with cases under Section 399, Arms Act, and Gambling Act) and Sajid alias Kaju (resident of Mahendra Nagar) — managed to escape and are currently wanted.

A case has been registered under Sections 8(c), 22(c), and 29 of the NDPS Act at Wathoda Police Station. The seized contraband and material have been handed over to the local police for further investigation.

The action was led by NDPS PI Gajanan Gulhane and his team.