UP Jail Warder Suspended Over Links With Dismissed STF Constable in Cough Syrup Scam

UP Jail Warder Suspended for Links With Dismissed STF Constable in Cough Syrup Scam

Lucknow: The investigation into Uttar Pradesh’s multi-crore cough syrup scam has taken another sharp turn with the suspension of a warder from Lucknow’s Model Jail. Officials say the disciplinary action was triggered after photos, videos, and financial records surfaced showing the warder’s proximity to dismissed STF constable Alok Singh - a central accused in the scam.

Authorities believe the development indicates deeper internal compromise within prison and enforcement circles, widening the scope of the ongoing probe.

DG (Prisons) Orders Immediate Suspension

On Saturday night, DG (Prisons) P.C. Meena issued an order placing warder Mahendra Pratap Singh under suspension. The formal notice was pasted outside his residence the following morning. Singh, originally from Ambedkar Nagar district, was posted at the high-security Lucknow Model Jail.

Officials said the action was taken after senior officers reviewed material suggesting that Singh had maintained “improper and unprofessional associations,” raising concerns about potential interference with custodial procedures.

Viral Photos and Suspicious Money Transfers Trigger Inquiry

The suspension followed the circulation of visuals showing the warder alongside:

• Shubham Jaiswal, alleged mastermind of the cough syrup racket

• Alok Singh, dismissed STF constable and current inmate

• Amit Singh ‘Tata’, another figure linked to the network

Investigators also flagged multiple monetary transfers from Alok Singh into the bank account of Mahendra’s wife — a financial link that raised immediate red flags.

Acting Superintendent Rajesh Pandey submitted a report recommending suspension, after which Senior Superintendent Shashikant Singh authorised the order.

Luxury SUV and Jail Adjacency Under Scrutiny

Another angle under examination is Mahendra’s alleged use of a white luxury SUV with the number series “9777,” believed to be connected to syndicate members.

Authorities are also probing whether the warder, stationed at the Model Jail adjacent to the district jail where Alok Singh is lodged, may have played a facilitating role — either by enabling communication, movement, or access not permitted to inmates.

Past Links With Politically Influential Figures Raise Questions

Sources in the prison department revealed that Mahendra Pratap Singh had previously maintained close relations with powerful political figures:

• During his posting at Unnao District Jail, he was reportedly connected to former MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar.

• After Sengar’s imprisonment, he is believed to have aligned himself with another influential Purvanchal politician.

These relationships are now being reviewed as part of a broader assessment of potential systemic compromise and patronage networks.

Departmental Inquiry Begins as Probe Widens

Officials confirmed a formal internal inquiry has been launched. Investigators will examine:

• Whether the warder provided operational assistance to accused individuals

• Financial irregularities uncovered in the bank accounts of his family

• Possible involvement of additional prison personnel

Senior officers said strict action will follow if the inquiry establishes deliberate facilitation or concealment.

Cough Syrup Scam Exposes Deepening Nexus

The wider cough syrup scam - involving illegal pharmaceutical diversion, interstate smuggling, money laundering, and alleged political connections - has already resulted in the arrests of STF personnel and individuals with significant influence.

The suspension of a serving jail warder adds another layer to the case, signalling zero tolerance for internal collusion and highlighting the systemic vulnerabilities exploited by organised networks.

Cases like this underline how weak internal controls, unchecked financial flows, and opaque operational practices can create serious institutional risks. Whether in the public sector or private enterprises, strong governance frameworks and independent audits play a critical role in preventing such breakdowns.

To strengthen financial discipline and operational transparency in your organisation, explore our expert-led Auditing Services in India