In a significant drug bust, authorities in Mandya district uncovered an illegal marijuana cultivation operation cleverly concealed among regular crops. The incident came to light in Kashimurakanahalli village, located in K.R. Pete taluk.
The accused, who is now in police custody, had allegedly grown ganja plants alongside conventional crops such as areca nut, banana, and coconut on agricultural land owned by Boregowda. The operation was discovered after a team led by Excise Sub-Inspector Nagabhushan conducted a raid based on credible intelligence.
During the inspection, officers found approximately 17 kilograms of marijuana plants discreetly hidden among the other vegetation. The seized plants are estimated to be worth several lakhs in the illegal market.
A formal case has been registered at the K.R. Pete Excise Station, and further investigations are underway to determine if others are linked to the cultivation and whether the produce had already been partially distributed.
Local residents were stunned by the revelation, especially considering the marijuana was grown amidst legal crops, making the operation difficult to detect. Officials praised the swift and efficient action taken by the excise team, which helped prevent the narcotics from entering the wider market.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on illegal drug cultivation and urged the public to report any suspicious activities in their surroundings.
Read also: