Nagpur: In a major anti-narcotics operation, the NDPS squad of Nagpur Police conducted a crackdown within the jurisdiction of Gittikhadan Police Station and seized MD (Mephedrone) powder, deadly weapons and suspected stolen jewellery worth ₹16.13 lakh, while arresting three accused and launching a search for one absconding suspect.
According to police, the action was carried out on June 17, 2026, between 2:50 am and 7:40 amnear Dawood Pan Centre on a public road at Vishwas Nagar in Gittikhadan. During routine patrolling, the anti-narcotics team noticed suspicious movement and detained the accused for questioning. Suspecting that they were carrying narcotic substances, police conducted a search in the presence of independent witnesses.
During the operation, police recovered 16 grams of MD (Mephedrone) powder, along with a chopper and a sword. Further searches at locations linked to the accused led to the recovery of suspected stolen jewellery, including 88.200 grams of yellow metal ornaments and 876.800 grams of white metal ornaments. The total value of the seized property has been estimated at ₹16,13,740.
Police registered an offence under Sections 8(c), 22(b), and 29 of the NDPS Act, along with relevant sections of the Indian Arms Act and Maharashtra Police Act.
The arrested accused have been identified as Akash Raju Hatagade (37), resident of Vishwas Nagar, Gittikhadan; Yogesh Sanju Siriya (30), resident of Gawalipura, Sadar; and Akash Gajanan Tale (30), resident of Manav Seva Nagar near Veterinary College, Nagpur. Police said some of the accused have previous criminal records registered under various offences.
During investigation, police found that Accused No. 1 had allegedly purchased MD powder from Accused No. 2 and intended to supply it to Accused No. 3. Police further suspect that the narcotic substance was sourced by Accused No. 2 from wanted accused Akash Kataria alias Akku, who is currently absconding. Authorities said Kataria has multiple cases registered against him under offences related to bodily harm, the Arms Act and prohibition laws.
Police have launched efforts to trace the wanted accused and are continuing further investigation into possible links to drug distribution and property-related offences.
