Dhaka, Nov 02 (V7N)- The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) has arrested a 22-year-old US citizen, Tausif Hasan, over his alleged involvement in operating a technology-based laboratory for cultivating the synthetic drug Kush at his residence in the capital's Wari area.
A team from the DNC's Divisional Intelligence Office in Dhaka arrested him during a raid at his residence on Rankin Street under Wari Police Station between 8:30 am and 9:00 am on Sunday, November 1.
According to the DNC, the raid was conducted following an investigation into an alleged attempt to smuggle Yaba tablets to the United States through an international courier service in January.
During the operation, investigators reportedly discovered a specially equipped laboratory allegedly used for cultivating Kush inside the house.
The DNC recovered Kush seeds brought from California, cultivated plants, freshly harvested Kush, cultivation equipment, smoking accessories and foreign liquor from the premises. Investigators also found evidence of cultivation in several tubs inside a temperature-controlled room constructed with tin and foil materials on the rooftop.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Tausif allegedly learned Kush cultivation techniques while staying in California, USA. After returning to Bangladesh, he reportedly established a specialized laboratory at his residence and continued cultivation using remote-controlled technology to regulate temperature and monitor laboratory activities while abroad.
Investigators also alleged that one of his associates assisted him in the operation.
The DNC further said that an earlier attempt had been made to send 32 Yaba tablets to the United States through an international courier service using a false identity. The shipment was intercepted during a DNC operation.
In connection with that case, the alleged associate and Tausif's house caretaker were arrested, and a case was filed with Tongi West Police Station. Tausif was subsequently named as a fugitive accused in the case.
During initial interrogation, Tausif reportedly provided information about his alleged involvement in supplying Yaba and Kush to various drug dealers in Dhaka.
The DNC said investigations are underway to identify other individuals involved in the alleged drug network and determine the sources of drug collection and distribution.
A separate case has been filed against Tausif at Wari Police Station under the Narcotics Control Act, 2018, over the alleged possession of recovered narcotics.
He has also been arrested in connection with the previous Kush laboratory case and is being questioned on remand as part of the ongoing investigation.
END/SMA/AJ
