In a major breakthrough against interstate drug trafficking, Bidar police on Saturday seized 660 kg of ganja valued at over ₹6.6 crore near Rajeshwar in Basavakalyan taluk. Two individuals, including one from Bidar district, have been arrested in connection with the incident.

The operation was launched after police received a tip-off about a vehicle transporting a large consignment of contraband along the national highway.

Massive haul during vehicle interception

Acting swiftly on the intelligence input, police teams intercepted a Tata Bolero travelling near Rajeshwar. Upon inspection, officers recovered 6.6 quintals of ganja concealed inside the vehicle. The narcotics, officials said, were being transported from Odisha and Visakhapatnam to Maharashtra.

Police arrested Sanjeev, a resident of Bidar, along with another accused whose details are yet to be disclosed. The vehicle used in the transport has also been seized.

Basavakalyan police have registered a case and initiated a detailed investigation to identify the network behind the smuggling operation, including potential suppliers and buyers.

Part of a recurring trafficking pattern

This is not the first time Bidar district police have intercepted a major ganja consignment. In July 2024, officers seized 305 kg of ganja worth ₹3 crore at the Bhangur check-post on the Telangana border. That consignment, too, was headed to Maharashtra from Odisha, indicating a recurring trafficking route. Four men from Malkangiri in Odisha were arrested in that case.

Police officials noted that traffickers often use national highways and border routes to move large quantities of narcotics into Maharashtra, taking advantage of interstate connectivity.

Stronger enforcement efforts underway

District authorities have reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-narcotics operations, particularly along vulnerable transit routes. More checkpoints, surveillance measures and coordination with neighbouring states are expected in the coming months.

Senior officers said the latest seizure underscores the need for continuous vigilance and inter-state collaboration to dismantle smuggling networks.

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