In a significant breakthrough under Operation Chakravyuh, a joint team of Lohta Police and Special Operations Group (SOG) Varanasi apprehended an inter-state drug smuggler on Tuesday afternoon. The accused was found in possession of 54.160 kilograms of illegal cannabis, valued at approximately Rs 15 lakh in the illicit market.
Details of the Operation
Acting on specific intelligence, the police team set up a checkpoint near the Sabhaipur underpass under the Lohta police station jurisdiction. At around 4:50 PM, a goods carrier truck approaching from the direction of Harahua block was flagged down for inspection. The truck driver, identified as Vakeel Bind, a resident of Rohtas district in Bihar, initially claimed he was traveling from Bihar to Prayagraj to load fruits. However, the officers remained vigilant and conducted a thorough search of the vehicle.
Discovery of the Contraband
During the search, the police discovered a specially constructed compartment within the truck's front divider, cleverly concealed to avoid detection. Inside this hidden cavity, they found 54.160 kg of cannabis neatly packed and stored. The accused later confessed that he had procured the drug from another state and intended to sell it in local markets at a higher profit margin.
Criminal Background of the Accused
Further interrogation revealed that Vakeel Bind had a prior criminal record under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in Odisha, where he had been incarcerated. Authorities are now investigating his possible involvement in similar illegal activities in other states as well. The police are working to trace his network and identify other individuals linked to this smuggling operation.
Legal Proceedings
A formal case has been registered against the accused at the Lohta police station under Sections 8 and 20 of the NDPS Act. Legal proceedings are underway, and the accused will be produced before the court to face charges. The successful seizure underscores the effectiveness of Operation Chakravyuh in curbing drug trafficking in the region.
