Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh: In a major crackdown on illegal narcotics trafficking, Bastar Police seized 214.3 kilograms of cannabis (marijuana) valued at approximately ₹10.715 million (over ₹1.07 crore) during a special operation in Jagdalpur’s Nagarnar police station area. One suspected trafficker from Uttar Pradesh was arrested, while another suspect escaped into a nearby forest under the cover of heavy rain and darkness.
According to police officials, the operation was launched after credible intelligence indicated that a large consignment of cannabis was being transported from Odisha to Uttar Pradesh through the Bastar region.
Tip-Off Leads to Major Drug Bust
Acting on information provided by an informant, officers from Nagarnar Police Station established a checkpoint near the Dhanpunji Forest Barrier and began inspecting vehicles traveling from the Odisha border.
During the operation, police intercepted a white Mahindra Bolero pickup truck suspected of carrying illegal contraband.
As officers stopped the vehicle, one occupant fled into the forest, taking advantage of heavy rainfall and poor visibility. However, the driver was immediately taken into custody.
Suspect Identified
The arrested suspect has been identified as Vijay Pandey, 34, a resident of Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.
Police said the investigation indicates that the cannabis shipment originated in Odisha and was destined for Uttar Pradesh, where it was allegedly intended for illegal distribution.
214.3 Kg of Cannabis Hidden in Plastic Sacks
A thorough search of the vehicle uncovered nine plastic sacks concealed in the cargo area. Inside the sacks, officers recovered 105 packets of cannabis, weighing a total of 214.300 kilograms.
Authorities estimated the seized narcotics to have an international black-market value of approximately ₹10.715 million.
Vehicle, Mobile Phone, and Cash Also Confiscated
In addition to the narcotics, police confiscated:
- 214.300 kg of cannabis
- Mahindra Bolero pickup truck worth approximately ₹250,000
- Samsung mobile phone
- ₹700 in cash
The seized items have been taken into police custody as evidence.
Police Statement
Speaking about the operation, Jagdalpur CSP Sumit Kumar said the successful seizure was made possible through timely intelligence and coordinated police action.
“We received reliable information that a cannabis consignment was being transported from Odisha to Uttar Pradesh. Based on the tip-off, Nagarnar Police set up a checkpoint and intercepted the vehicle. One accused was arrested, while another escaped into the forest. A search operation is underway to apprehend the absconding suspect,” the officer said.
Investigation Continues
Police have registered a case under the relevant provisions of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Investigators are now working to identify the broader drug trafficking network involved in the interstate smuggling operation and to trace the escaped suspect.
The seizure is considered one of the largest cannabis recoveries in the Bastar region in recent months, highlighting ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to dismantle organized narcotics trafficking routes operating between Odisha and northern India.
