Several photographs of Singh with Purvanchal strongman and former MP Dhananjay Singh have surfaced, raising further questions about his associations. Singh had been named in multiple FIRs, including one registered in Ghaziabad, and later added to the Lucknow cough syrup case. Investigators allege that he played a role in operating and protecting the smuggling syndicate.
“The STF has recovered concrete evidence against him, which will assist in the ongoing investigation,” said a senior official, requesting anonymity. The arrested constable is expected to provide information regarding the syndicate’s Dubai connections and the involvement of influential and white-collar individuals who allegedly facilitated its operations.
Singh’s associated real estate ventures, fake firms, and sleeper-cell-like structures will also be examined to uncover the network’s financial and operational reach. Authorities are scrutinising his banking transactions, foreign travel, and contacts, with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) joining the probe for a joint interrogation, anticipating potential links to money laundering in the multi-crore narcotics business.
The STF had intensified raids across various hideouts in the past week following intelligence inputs. Officials emphasised that Singh’s arrest marks a major breakthrough in dismantling the syndicate and aims to identify all accomplices, both domestic and international.
The case is now expected to move forward with detailed questioning of Singh, which may reveal further white-collar and political patronage, strengthening the state and central agencies’ efforts against narcotic smuggling in Uttar Pradesh.
