After being on the run for a long time, dismissed Uttar Pradesh Police constable Alok Singh, wanted in the high-profile cough syrup trafficking syndicate case, was finally arrested on Tuesday.
The UP Special Task Force (STF) apprehended him in the state capital. During initial interrogation, it surfaced that Singh had been preparing to surrender.
Sources revealed that Alok Singh had recently submitted an application for surrender before a Lucknow court. The court was scheduled to hear the matter today, during which the STF was expected to submit its report. However, STF teams, acting on technical surveillance and credible intelligence, arrested him before any courtroom proceedings.
The STF had been actively tracking Singh for the past week. A lookout circular was issued against him on Monday, and raids were being conducted at multiple suspected hideouts. According to sources, the STF recovered crucial inputs during the arrest, which played a key role in locating him. Official details regarding the exact place and time of his arrest have not been disclosed yet.
Alok Singh was already named in an FIR registered in Ghaziabad. His role was also highlighted in the ongoing investigation into the Lucknow-based cough syrup trafficking case. Investigators found that he was suspected of aiding in the operation and protection of the illegal syndicate. The STF claims to have collected substantial evidence against him during the probe.
Investigating agencies believe that Singh’s interrogation may shed light on the syndicate’s alleged Dubai connection and identify influential individuals who provided cover to the illegal network. His involvement in real estate activities, shell companies, and suspected sleeper-cell-like structures will also be scrutinised. Officials are particularly focusing on the role of certain “white-collar” supporters who helped the syndicate flourish.
Following the arrest, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and UP STF are preparing for a joint interrogation. The ED suspects possible money laundering in the illegal trade, estimated to exceed Rs 100 crore. Authorities will examine his bank transactions, foreign travel history, and communication networks as part of the expanded investigation.