Nagpur: In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Nagpur Regional Unit of the Mumbai Zone, has dismantled an inter-state drug trafficking syndicate and seized 522.554 kg of cannabis (ganja) valued at approximately Rs 2.61 crore. Two persons allegedly involved in the illicit network have been arrested under the provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985.
Acting on specific intelligence, DRI officials launched a surveillance-based operation targeting narcotics traffickers operating along the Odisha–Central India corridor and supplying contraband to Maharashtra. During the operation, officers intercepted a Tata Motors 16-ton long-platform truck (LPT 1618) travelling from the Odisha-Andhra Pradesh border towards Maharashtra on National Highway-53 near the Mathni Toll Plaza in Mouda.
A thorough search of the vehicle led to the recovery of 522.554 kg of ganja concealed in multiple secret compartments. The contraband was packed in 247 packages stored inside eight HDPE bags and wrapped in khaki-coloured plastic tape. Investigators found the narcotics hidden behind the driver’s seat, in a concealed cavity above the driver and passenger seats, inside a locked toolbox beneath the cargo area, and atop the truck’s cabin.
The seized ganja is estimated to be worth Rs 2.61 crore in the illicit market. The truck, valued at around Rs 8.5 lakh, was also seized. Two individuals were arrested in connection with the case.
DRI officials highlighted that earlier this year, the Nagpur unit had conducted two separate but linked operations that resulted in the seizure of more than 1,250 kg of ganja worth Rs 6.25 crore and the arrest of four accused, including the alleged mastermind of the network.
The latest operation underscores DRI’s continued efforts to dismantle organised narcotics trafficking networks operating across state borders. The agency reiterated its commitment to the Government of India’s “Nasha Mukt Bharat” mission and appealed to the public to share information related to drug trafficking activities, assuring complete confidentiality.
