Kolhapur Police Busts Drug Racket, Arrests BTech Student and Accomplice
In a significant crackdown, the Kolhapur police have apprehended a BTech student and his friend for possessing narcotics valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh. The seized substances include methamphetamine and hydroponically cultivated ganja, marking a notable case in the region's ongoing battle against drug trafficking.
Details of the Arrested Individuals
The arrested persons have been identified as Shahid Ibrahim Mokashi (21), a resident of Ainapur in Gadhinglaj tehsil, Kolhapur district, and Abrahim Jockey Gonsalves (23), originally from Goa but currently residing on rent in Mukt Sainik Vasahat, Kolhapur. Both were captured near a prominent management college in Kolhapur city, raising suspicions of their intent to distribute drugs to students.
Seizure and Investigation Insights
The police confiscated 33.540 grams of MD (methamphetamine) and 31.31 grams of hydroponic ganja. Assistant Police Inspector Sachin Chandan highlighted the rarity of this bust, stating, "For the first time, we have encountered the possession and attempted sale of hydroponic ganja. This artificial variant is produced under controlled temperature conditions and commands a high price of around Rs 1 crore per kilogram." Gonsalves, who works in the event management sector, reportedly met Mokashi through narcotics dealings.
Following their arrest, the duo was presented before the Kolhapur court on Saturday, where the police secured a four-day custody for further interrogation. Authorities aim to uncover the broader network of this drug trade, including forward and backward linkages, as part of their investigation.
Context of Drug-Related Activities in Kolhapur
This incident adds to a series of recent drug busts in the area. In June 2025, the local crime branch arrested eight individuals from four districts—Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, and Solapur—for alleged involvement in ganja smuggling. Earlier this month, police also arrested Manish Nagori, a known criminal involved in illegal firearms trade, after recovering 835 grams of methamphetamine worth Rs 26 lakh from his vehicles. This arrest followed a probe into a shooting incident involving individuals on bail and in custody.
The Kolhapur police continue to intensify efforts to combat drug trafficking, particularly focusing on preventing the spread of narcotics among educational institutions and youth communities.
