India, July 27 -- In a major intelligence-led operation, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has busted an alleged international drug trafficking network by seizing 10.99 kg of ephedrine worth an estimated Rs.5 crore from Mumbai and Kalyan. The controlled substance, allegedly concealed inside courier parcels bound for New Zealand, was suspected to be intended for the illegal manufacture of methamphetamine, officials said on Sunday.

Ephedrine, a controlled substance under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Regulation of Controlled Substances) Order, is a key precursor used in the illicit production of methamphetamine, a highly addictive synthetic stimulant popularly known as "Ice", "Crystal Meth" or "Speed". According to the N...