Section 68F of NDPS Act, 1985 : Section 68F: Seizure Or Freezing Of Illegally Acquired Property

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is investigating a notorious drug dealer, Mr. X, under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985. During the investigation, an NCB officer finds that Mr. X owns a luxury villa which is suspected to have been purchased with the proceeds from his illegal drug trade. The officer believes that Mr. X may try to sell the villa quickly to prevent it from being seized during the investigation.

Acting under Section 68F(1), the officer places an order to seize the villa to ensure it doesn't get sold or transferred, which could hinder the process of forfeiture if Mr. X is found guilty. The officer also sends a copy of this order to the competent authority within the required 48-hour timeframe.

Under Section 68F(2), this seizure order is temporary and must be confirmed by the competent authority within 30 days to remain in effect. If confirmed, Mr. X cannot sell or deal with the property until the investigation is complete or without permission from the authority.