Lucknow. The investigation into Uttar Pradesh’s multi-crore cough syrup scam has widened after a jail warder posted at Lucknow’s Model Jail was suspended for his alleged proximity to a dismissed Special Task Force (STF) constable accused in the case.
The warder, Mahendra Pratap Singh, was placed under suspension late Saturday night on the orders of DG (Prisons) P.C. Meena, following the emergence of photos, videos and financial trails linking him to Alok Singh, the sacked STF constable currently lodged in jail for his role in the scam.
DG (Prisons) Orders Immediate Suspension
Prison officials confirmed that the suspension order was formally pasted outside Mahendra Pratap Singh’s residence on Sunday morning. Singh is posted at Lucknow Model Jail and hails from Ambedkar Nagar district.
Sources said the action was taken swiftly after senior prison authorities reviewed material suggesting “serious misconduct and improper associations” inconsistent with his official duties.
Viral Photos and Money Transfers Trigger Probe
The crackdown followed the circulation of photos and short videos on social media showing Mahendra Pratap Singh in close company with:
- Shubham Jaiswal, alleged mastermind of the cough syrup racket
- Alok Singh, dismissed STF constable and key accused
- Amit Singh ‘Tata’, another figure linked to the network
According to the suspension order, investigators also found that substantial amounts of money were transferred by Alok Singh into the bank account of Mahendra’s wife, raising serious questions about financial links.
Acting Superintendent of Model Jail Rajesh Pandey immediately recommended suspension, after which Senior Superintendent Shashikant Singh formally issued the order.
Luxury SUV and Prison Proximity Under Scanner
Officials are also examining Mahendra’s alleged use of a white luxury SUV bearing the number series “9777,” which is suspected to be associated with members of the cough syrup syndicate.
Investigators have flagged the fact that Alok Singh is lodged in the district jail adjacent to the Model Jail, intensifying concerns over possible facilitation or undue support from within the prison system.
Past Links With Powerful Political Figures
Sources within the prison department said Mahendra Pratap Singh has a history of proximity to politically influential figures:
- During a previous posting at Unnao District Jail, he was reportedly close to former MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar
- After Sengar’s incarceration, Mahendra allegedly cultivated ties with another influential former MP from Purvanchal, known for strong political clout
These connections are now being examined as part of a broader assessment of institutional compromise.
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Departmental Inquiry Launched
Senior officials confirmed that a formal departmental inquiry has been initiated to determine:
- Whether Mahendra provided logistical or operational assistance
- The source and nature of financial transactions linked to his family
- Whether other prison staff were compromised
“The allegations are serious. If involvement is established, strict disciplinary action will follow,” a senior prison officer said.
Cough Syrup Scam: Web of Crime, Politics and Enforcement
The cough syrup scam has already resulted in multiple arrests, including STF personnel and politically connected individuals, exposing a nexus involving illegal pharmaceutical diversion, money laundering and abuse of official positions.
Officials said the suspension of a serving jail warder marks a critical point in the investigation, signalling zero tolerance for internal complicity.