Surat Police Arrest Youth With Mephedrone Worth ₹7 Lakh, Bust Party-Drug Supply Ahead of New Year

The accused, identified as Jil Bhupatbhai Thummar, was found in possession of 236.780 grams of Mephedrone, commonly known as “Meow-Meow” or “Miau Miau.” Police also seized a mobile phone valued at ₹45,000, taking the total value of confiscated material to approximately ₹7.55 lakh. Officials said the drugs were intended for distribution at private parties and gatherings during the New Year festivities.

According to investigators, Thummar was working on commission for a larger drug network and was acting on instructions from his handlers, who are currently absconding. Police have named Khushal Vallabhbhai Ranpariya and Bharat alias Bhano Damjibhai Lathiya as the suspected masterminds behind the operation. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest them.

During interrogation, Thummar revealed that he used coded language to evade detection. Terms such as “Nirma,” “Tide,” “OG,” and “Dawa” were used to refer to different grades of Mephedrone, allowing transactions to appear innocuous. This method, police said, helped conceal the illegal trade under the guise of everyday products.

Investigators also found that the accused relied heavily on social media platforms, including WhatsApp, Instagram, and Snapchat, to contact customers and take orders. By avoiding direct phone calls and using encrypted chats and disappearing messages, the network attempted to stay ahead of law enforcement. The SOG is now analysing digital data to identify buyers and map the wider distribution chain, including possible links to other cities.

A case has been registered at Amroli Police Station under Sections 8(c), 22(c), and 29 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Senior police officials said further arrests are likely as the probe progresses.

Mephedrone, banned in India since 2015, is a synthetic stimulant often used as a cheaper alternative to cocaine and heroin. Health experts warn that its consumption can lead to severe psychological and physical consequences, including paranoia, hallucinations, cardiac complications, and, in extreme cases, death.

Police officials said the timely operation prevented a significant quantity of drugs from reaching young partygoers, underlining the growing challenge of technology-driven drug trafficking and the need for intelligence-led policing.