Massive Cannabis Seizure in Odisha: Police Arrest 5 Suspected Drug Peddlers

Strategic Insights -

Odisha has emerged as one of the leading cannabis-producing states in India, with eight districts accounting for the majority of the crop. A recent seizure of 350 kilograms of high-grade cannabis and two pistols in Koraput district has brought to light the complexities of the illicit trade. The police team displayed exceptional bravery in apprehending the five suspects, including Lal Bahadur Darjee, who has a history of over 20 serious criminal cases, including those under the POCSO Act and NDPS Act.

Key Takeaways:

  • A total of 350 kilograms of high-grade cannabis valued at Rs 35 lakh were seized from five suspected drug peddlers in Koraput district of Odisha.
  • The contraband was intercepted by police near a check post in Padwa police station area, and the suspects were arrested after a brief scuffle.
  • Lal Bahadur Darjee, one of the accused, has a history of over 20 serious criminal cases, including those under the POCSO Act and NDPS Act.
  • Odisha is one of the leading cannabis-producing states in India, with eight districts being the epicenter of hemp cultivation.
  • Contraband is smuggled from Koraput and Malkangiri to various parts of the country via well-oiled rackets of middlemen, often using road or rail transport.
  • The eight districts where cannabis is widely cultivated are Rayagada, Malkangiri, Koraput, Boudh, Kandhamal, Gajapati, Ganjam, and Nabarangpur.

Statistics:

  • 350 kilograms of high-grade cannabis seized from the suspects.
  • Rs 35 lakh (approximately $45,000 USD) value of the seized cannabis.
  • Five suspected drug peddlers arrested, including Lal Bahadur Darjee, with a history of over 20 serious criminal cases.
  • Eight districts in Odisha accounted for the majority of cannabis cultivation.
  • NDPS Act (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act) is the relevant law under which the arrests were made.
  • Two pistols were also seized from the suspects' possession.

Sources:

  • "A huge cache of cannabis locally called ganja was seized by police in Odisha's Koraput district..." - United News of India.
  • "He was an absconder in multiple cases and had non-bailable warrants issued against him by the Court, police said." - United News of India.
  • "The contraband smuggled from Koraput and Malkangiri makes its way to southern and northern parts of the country by well-oiled rackets of middlemen.The contraband is smuggled to various destinations either by road or rail, confided officials." - United News of India.