Mangaluru: Konaje police arrested two persons who were allegedly transporting a large quantity of ganja in a car for illegal sale and distribution, and seized around 80 kg of the contraband near Mudipu on February 7, 2026. The accused were caught following a targeted interception based on a tip-off about drug movement along the Melkar–Sajipa–Boliaru route, police said.
The arrested accused have been identified as Naushad and Ibrahim. Both were taken into custody after they allegedly attempted to escape when police stopped their vehicle at Mittakodi in Kurnadu village limits. Along with the ganja, police also confiscated the car used for transport and three mobile phones believed to be linked to the operation.
Tip-off led to planned interception
According to police sources, the operation was launched after Konaje police received credible information that ganja was being transported in bulk through the interior road network for distribution. The consignment was reportedly intended for sale in Mudipu and also for illegal supply to neighbouring Kerala.
Based on the intelligence input, a police team was formed and deployed along the suspected route. Officers conducted vehicle checks and surveillance at strategic points to identify the suspected car.
When the identified vehicle approached the interception point at Mittakodi, police signalled it to stop. Instead of complying immediately, the occupants allegedly tried to flee, prompting officers to act swiftly and block the vehicle before securing both suspects.
Large quantity of contraband recovered
During inspection of the car, police found multiple bundled packages concealed inside. On verification, the contents were confirmed to be ganja. The total seized quantity was estimated at around 80 kg, which is considered a commercial quantity under narcotics law and attracts stringent penalties.
Officials said the contraband was packed in tightly wrapped bundles for ease of transport and to avoid detection. The packaging pattern suggests organised sourcing and intended bulk distribution rather than small-scale peddling, investigators indicated.
The seized ganja has been taken into custody as case property and will be produced before the court along with the seizure mahazar and related documentation.
Vehicle and phones confiscated
Apart from the narcotic substance, police seized the car used for transporting the ganja. Authorities believe the vehicle may have been specifically arranged or modified for smuggling purposes. A technical examination may be carried out to check for hidden compartments or prior usage in similar offences.
Three mobile phones recovered from the accused have also been confiscated. Investigators are expected to analyse call records, messaging apps, and location data to trace supply links, buyer networks, and any wider drug distribution chain connected to the case.
Police sources said digital evidence often plays a crucial role in identifying handlers, financiers, and repeat routes used in narcotics transport.
Case registered under NDPS Act
A case has been registered under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Since the quantity seized falls in the commercial category, the offence carries strict bail conditions and heavier punishment if proven in court.
The accused will be produced before the jurisdictional court and further custody may be sought for detailed questioning. Police are also working to establish the source of the ganja and the intended recipients.
Officials said more arrests are possible as the investigation progresses and linkages are verified.
Focus on inter-district drug routes
Police said that increased vigilance has been maintained on inter-district and inter-state road corridors that are sometimes misused for narcotics transport. Routes passing through semi-rural belts are often chosen by smugglers in an attempt to avoid major highway checks.
Regular naka checks, intelligence-based interception, and coordination between police stations have led to multiple recent seizures, officers noted. Public tip-offs and local inputs continue to play an important role in such operations.
Authorities urged citizens to share information about suspicious transport or storage of drugs, assuring confidentiality for informants.
Investigation continues
With a significant quantity of ganja seized and two accused in custody, police are now focused on mapping the supply chain behind the consignment. The role of intermediaries, transport facilitators, and intended buyers will be examined.
Further legal action will follow based on forensic confirmation, digital evidence, and custodial interrogation findings. Police reiterated their commitment to curbing drug trafficking and illegal distribution networks through sustained enforcement.