UP STF Seizes Amit Tata in Probe into Interstate and Cross-Border Codeine Diversion Network

The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) arrested Amit Kumar Singh, alias Amit Tata, a Jaunpur resident, on Thursday for allegedly running a major illegal network trafficking codeine-based cough syrup. The racket is believed to span multiple Indian states and extend to neighboring countries, STF officials confirmed.

Authorities allege that over ₹100 crore worth of cough syrup was illicitly procured using forged documents, with a large portion diverted to trafficking networks in Uttarakhand, Bihar, Jharkhand, Assam, West Bengal, and Bangladesh.

Amit Tata was apprehended near Gwari Chauraha in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, around 7 am. Police recovered two mobile phones, an SUV, an Aadhaar card, and several incriminating documents from his digital devices.

The STF is also probing Tata’s alleged links to a controversial Eastern Uttar Pradesh Politician known for a history of organized-crime accusations. Though no charges have been filed against the politician in this case, investigators are examining whether his network may have provided protection, logistics, or safe passage for the illegal trade, especially along the West Bengal and Bangladesh borders.

The arrest follows the November 12 detention of Vibhor Rana and Vishal Singh in Saharanpur, whose interrogation reportedly exposed Tata’s role. The syndicate allegedly created shell medical firms, used fake purchase documents and e-way bills, and smuggled high-demand codeine syrup, particularly Phensedyl, through eastern corridors.

Tata reportedly admitted investing in two firms controlled by Shubham Jaiswal—now believed to have fled to Dubai—after being lured by promises of huge profits from the banned syrup trade. With seven prior criminal cases against him, including attempted murder and forgery, the case highlights deep ties between pharmaceutical diversion, organized crime, and possible political patronage in eastern Uttar Pradesh.