Nagpur: In a major crackdown on organised narcotics trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Nagpur Regional Unit of the Mumbai Zone, has dismantled an inter-state drug syndicate and seized 1,251 kilograms of cannabis (ganja) collectively valued at approximately Rs 6.25 crore. Four persons, including the alleged mastermind, have been arrested in two connected intelligence-based operations.

According to officials, the syndicate was operating along the Odisha–Central India corridor, using commercial vehicles and legitimate consignments as cover to transport large quantities of contraband across state borders.

729 Kg Ganja Seized on NH-53

In the first operation, DRI officers intercepted a Bolero pick-up vehicle travelling from the Odisha–Andhra Pradesh border towards the Madhya Pradesh–Rajasthan border on National Highway-53. Upon thorough inspection, officials discovered 53 gunny bags containing 142 packages of cannabis weighing 729 kg.

The contraband, valued at Rs 3.64 crore, was ingeniously concealed within raw ginger sacks placed as cover cargo inside the gunny bags. The seized ganja, along with the vehicle and the cover cargo, was confiscated under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.

Two individuals were arrested in connection with the seizure. Notably, one of them has been identified as the mastermind of the network, who had been absconding in connection with an earlier case.

522 Kg Ganja Recovered at Bhagimahari Toll Plaza

In a related earlier operation, DRI officials had intercepted a truck at Bhagimahari Toll Plaza on National Highway-47 after it crossed the Odisha border. A detailed search led to the recovery of 100 packages of cannabis weighing 522 kg.

The contraband, valued at Rs 2.61 crore, was concealed beneath cover cargo comprising air coolers, table fans and blankets. The ganja, along with the vehicle and goods used as camouflage, was seized, and two persons were taken into custody.

Sustained Crackdown on Drug Networks

Officials stated that the back-to-back seizures highlight the agency’s sustained enforcement efforts against organised drug trafficking networks operating across multiple states. Investigations are underway to trace the broader supply chain, financial links and potential interstate connections of the syndicate.

Authorities are probing the Odisha–Central India trafficking route, which has emerged as a significant corridor for the illegal transportation of cannabis to various parts of the country.

Further investigation is in progress.