The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) seized 270 kg of mephedrone during a two-day operation across multiple states. The synthetic drug, worth ₹81 crore on the black market, was hidden inside chicken feed to avoid detection. On January 13, 2026, DRI officers stopped a truck on the Deedwana-Kuchaman State highway in Rajasthan. "A detailed examination led to the recovery of 270 kg of mephedrone ingeniously concealed within a consignment of chicken feed," said a DRI spokesperson. The truck driver and other syndicate members escorting the cargo were caught on the spot. Follow-up raids in Haryana arrested more key members involved in making and supplying the drug. Authorities also found raw materials in a dismantled secret drug factory. "The operation was logistically challenging, involving sustained efforts, interstate coordination, and precise execution to intercept the movement of the contraband," the spokesperson added. Six major syndicate members were arrested. The bust uncovered a well-organised, multi-state drug syndicate. Earlier this year, DRI also busted six illegal drug factories in Wardha, Hyderabad, and Greater Noida making mephedrone, alprazolam, and methamphetamine. The agency said its intelligence-led enforcement continues to fight narcotics trafficking in India.