CBN Seizes 18.64 Kg Crude Heroin From Northeast-Linked Trafficking Network In UP

Guwahati, August 24: The Central Bureau of Narcotics (CBN) has seized 18.64 kg of crude heroin in two back-to-back operations near Lucknow and Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh. The contraband originated from the northeastern region and was being trafficked for consumption in Uttar Pradesh, according to a statement from the Ministry of Finance.

Three key members of an inter-state trafficking network have been arrested.

CBN tracks trafficking network

Acting on specific inputs about the movement of drugs from the Northeast to Lucknow, the CBN laid a cordon along the Sultanpur–Lucknow Highway on the intervening night of August 20–21, 2026.

After tracking the movement across different toll plazas, the team intercepted an Assam-registered SUV near Lucknow on August 21.

“The vehicle was found empty and the occupants claimed innocence. Operational officers grew suspicious when the vehicle’s occupants on questioning disclosed to have refuelled four times within a span of just 500 km,” the statement said.

Heroin recovered from vehicle

A physical tapping test of the fuel tank detected a hollow acoustic anomaly. At the CBN office in Lucknow, technical assistance was used to dismantle the tank.

A specially fabricated compartment was found containing 25 waterproof packages with 16.46 kg of crude heroin.

In a separate operation based on intelligence developed by the CBN UP Unit, teams tracked a heavy truck carrying contraband along the Siliguri–Lucknow corridor. The vehicle was intercepted near Barabanki, where a physical search led to the recovery of 2.16 kg of crude heroin. One suspect was arrested.

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NDPS case registered

All three suspects have been booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.

The two transport vehicles and the entire consignment have been confiscated.: