Tripura CM Manik Saha rejects CBI probe into banned cough syrup seizure

Guwahati: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Sunday dismissed calls for a CBI investigation into the recent recovery of banned cough syrup, stating that the state’s Crime Branch is fully capable of handling the case.

A consignment of the banned cough syrup Escuf, valued at Rs 2 crore, was seized from a goods train at Jirania station in West Tripura on October 17.

Four individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.

Escuf, reportedly misused as an intoxicant in Bangladesh, is prohibited under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

Saha credited the seizure to the intensified and ongoing anti-drug operations being carried out across the state.

He said, "Now, the opposition is alleging that the state has been flooded with drugs. The Crime Branch is investigating the case, and they are fully capable of cracking it and ensuring the conviction of those involved."

He added, "There is no plan to hand over the case to any central agency or CBI."