According to investigators, Shakeel, along with his associate Vaibhav alias Baba Sharma, organised exclusive parties in metro cities and tourist hubs, charging entry fees ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000. MD drugs were allegedly supplied to guests at these events, often held in pubs, clubs, and private venues.

Police revealed that two young women—Alisha Masih and Neha—were used as peddlers, as they attracted less suspicion. The women were allegedly lured into the operation with promises of high commissions and free drugs. Over time, they also helped recruit new clients, particularly young partygoers, who were introduced to MD under the pretext of party culture and gradually made dependent.

Following Shakeel’s arrest, police apprehended Baba Sharma and the two women. Subsequently, three more members of the gang were arrested from Indore, Mumbai, and Dewas, taking the total arrests to seven so far. During interrogation, Baba Sharma reportedly confessed that the gang supplied MD at ₹10,000 per gram, primarily targeting wealthy customers.

A case has been registered at Kanadia police station, Indore, under Crime No. 37/2025, invoking Sections 8 and 22 of the NDPS Act. Police have seized 15.95 grams of MD drugs, an unregistered EcoSport car, a Thar, and an SUV from the accused. Investigators are now probing the source of the MD supply chain, with officials indicating that further arrests are likely.

The case has also had institutional fallout. The Bhopal Division Cricket Association (BDCA) has expelled Aban Shakeel from its primary membership after his name surfaced in the drug case. BDCA confirmed that Shakeel was a lifetime member of the association.

Police said Shakeel lived in a luxury mansion built on half an acre near Saifiya College ground, with multiple high-end vehicles parked on the premises. He was known to frequently visit upscale clubs in New Bhopal.

Officials described the case as a reminder of how organised drug networks are increasingly using legitimate-looking businesses and social events to mask illegal operations, particularly targeting urban youth.