The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) arrested a man in Lucknow on December 2, 2025. He is linked to illegal storage and trade of banned Phensedyl cough syrup and other drugs containing codeine. The STF received tips about these drugs being sent to states like Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, West Bengal, and even Bangladesh. Working with the Food Safety and Pharmaceuticals Department, the STF recovered a large quantity of illicit Phensedyl. Earlier, two accused, Vibhor Rana and Vishal Singh, were arrested on November 12, and another, Amit Kumar Singh alias Amit Tata, on November 27. These men revealed the involvement of a fourth accused, Alok Pratap Singh. He was caught near Palassio Mall in Lucknow on December 2 and is now being questioned for information on other gang members. The case is registered at the Sushant Golf City police station.