At least three ganja smugglers were nabbed by police in Odisha’s Malkangiri on Tuesday. Apart from the arrest, ganja weighing 300 kg was seized from their possession.
Reportedly, Padua police intercepted the major ganja smuggling attempt in Malkangiri district today and arrested the trio.
Police Intercept Vehicle After Tip-Off
According to police, they received information regarding ganja smuggling from Malkangiri district to Araku in the neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. Acting on the tip-off, Padua police in Koraput district set up vehicle checks near Bailaguda Square to monitor movement on the route.
Smugglers Try to Flee, Caught Near Goluru
During the checking, police signalled a vehicle travelling from Malkangiri towards Araku to stop. However, the smugglers attempted to speed away. Police chased after them and successfully intercepted the vehicle near Goluru village.
Three Accused Identified
Upon searching the vehicle, police recovered 300 kg of ganja. The arrested individuals have been identified as Sridhar Khara of Khuda village, Dhana Hantal, and Neela Khemundu of Madhiput village. Police confirmed that the vehicle used in the transportation was also seized.
Further Investigation Underway
The Padua police have registered a case and said further investigation is underway to trace the source of the contraband and others possibly involved in the smuggling network.