Ramanathapuram Police Dismantle Meth Syndicate, Seize 1.4 Kg Drugs

The Ramanathapuram District Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) has dismantled a significant methamphetamine syndicate, confiscating nearly 1.4 kilograms of the illicit drug with an estimated value of ₹1.50 crore. The operation also led to the discovery of a methamphetamine manufacturing laboratory and the arrest of nine individuals, including the alleged mastermind.

What Happened

Acting on intelligence, the ANTF team conducted an operation near a Municipal water tank in Ramanathapuram on July 27, 2026, at approximately 5 p.m. This led to the initial arrest of Jabeesh, 25, who was found in possession of one gram of methamphetamine. Subsequent interrogations revealed a chain of suppliers and operatives within the district and surrounding areas. The investigation escalated, resulting in the apprehension of several individuals who were found to be in possession of further quantities of the drug, ranging from grams to hundreds of grams.

The inquiry exposed a larger supply network involving Shiek Muhammed, 38, who arranged shipments through Habeebur Rahuman, 52. Further arrests included Sikkandar Bathursa, 53, and Jamal Moideen, 60. The investigation pinpointed Shahul Hameed, a leather business owner in Chennai and resident of Ilayangudi, as the principal mastermind and chief supplier. Raw materials for manufacturing the drug were procured by Hameed and sent to Zahir Hussain in Ilayankudi. Hussain, along with two others, allegedly produced the methamphetamine in a hidden laboratory located within a lathe workshop he owned.

During the search of the workshop, authorities seized 670 grams of methamphetamine, alongside essential raw materials such as pseudoephedrine, red phosphorus, iodine, various acids, reagents, and thinners, as well as laboratory equipment. Including this final seizure, the total quantity of methamphetamine recovered amounted to 1.37 kilograms. Authorities have indicated that two additional individuals are currently under inquiry as the broader network is being investigated.

Key Facts

• The Ramanathapuram District Police’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) dismantled a methamphetamine syndicate.
• Approximately 1.4 kg of methamphetamine was seized, valued at an estimated ₹1.50 crore.
• A methamphetamine manufacturing lab was discovered and dismantled.
• Nine key operatives, including the alleged mastermind, were arrested.
• Raw materials seized included 1.9 kg of pseudoephedrine, 5 kg of red phosphorus, and 4.8 kg of iodine.
• The operation commenced on July 27, 2026, at approximately 5 p.m. near a Municipal water tank in Ramanathapuram.
• Several individuals were arrested at different locations, leading to escalating seizures of methamphetamine and information about the supply chain.
• The principal mastermind was identified as Shahul Hameed, who reportedly operated a leather business in Chennai.
• The manufacturing lab was reportedly hidden in a lathe workshop owned by Zahir Hussain in Ilayankudi.
• A total of 1.37 kg of methamphetamine was recovered after including the seizure from the manufacturing lab.