The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has carried out extensive search operations at 21 locations in Mumbai and several areas in Gujarat, including Surat, Ankleshwar, and Rajkot. These actions, which took place over two days on June 2 and 3, are part of a broader investigation into a transnational organised narcotics trafficking network. This syndicate is reportedly managed by Salim Ismail Dola, a close aide of notorious gangster Dawood Ibrahim, along with his associates.

The investigative body confirmed that the raids focused on dismantling Dola’s operational framework, which reportedly involves various individuals and companies connected to the production and distribution of the synthetic narcotic drug Mephedrone (MD). The operation also aimed at uncovering links to precursor chemical suppliers and hawala operators suspected of facilitating money laundering through the proceeds from the drug trafficking enterprise.

As part of this significant crackdown, the ED undertook these searches under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). Officials stated that the main objective was to disrupt both the supply chain and the financial mechanisms that support the drug syndicate, which has been characterised by a high level of organisation.

Items Seized During the Raids

The enforcement actions resulted in the seizure and freezing of valuable items, with a total worth of approximately Rs 1.33 crore. This includes cash, foreign currency amounting to $2,200, gold bars, and various bank balances. Furthermore, documents related to immovable properties valued at several crores of rupees in India and Dubai were retrieved. This discovery suggests that significant investments were allegedly made through funds generated by the drug syndicate.

The ED indicated that the information gathered during these searches demonstrates a well-structured transnational criminal organisation. This group is involved in various illicit activities, including the clandestine manufacturing of Mephedrone (MD), interstate transportation and distribution of narcotic drugs, as well as international trafficking. It also reportedly engages in money laundering via hawala channels and the acquisition of assets in the names of associates.

Salim Dola, also known as the “Mephedrone King”, has been implicated in running this extensive drug network. At 59 years of age, he was apprehended in Turkey based on an Interpol Red Notice following a request from Indian authorities in March 2024. Dola was subsequently extradited back to India in April, where he was arrested shortly after his arrival at the Delhi airport.

Background of Salim Dola

The investigation against Dola stems from multiple First Information Reports (FIRs) lodged by various law enforcement agencies in Mumbai. These charges relate to the illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, solidifying Dola’s profile as a key figure in the drug trade. Authorities are particularly concerned about his directed involvement in significant seizures of heroin, charas, mephedrone, mandrax, and methamphetamine, predominantly in Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Officials have highlighted that Dola was known to have operated under several aliases, including “Hamza” and “Abdul,” during his time in Turkey. Reports suggest he was also in the process of acquiring properties there, allegedly to secure citizenship. His criminal history spans over two decades, with multiple Indian agencies, including the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) and Maharashtra Police, actively pursuing him for his alleged offences.

In 2025, the Mumbai Police arrested several of Dola’s associates and his son, Tahil Salim Dola, following deportations from the UAE, further emphasising the extensive reach and impact of Dola’s alleged drug trafficking network. The ongoing investigation continues to uncover the underlying operations that facilitate such crime.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share