The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Chennai zonal unit dismantled an interstate drug trafficking network with suspected links to Sri Lanka, seizing 717 kilograms of ganja worth approximately ₹3.58 crore and arresting three individuals on Wednesday.
Operation Details
Acting on specific intelligence, NCB officials intercepted a container truck on the Madurai-Tuticorin National Highway near Meelavittam in Tuticorin. A detailed inspection of the vehicle led to the recovery of the contraband, which was concealed within a sophisticated false ceiling and specially designed hidden cavities, indicating a well-organized trafficking operation.
Arrests and Background
The operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals: S Manikandan, K Siva Perumal, and S Krishnamoorthy. They have criminal backgrounds, including prior convictions for murder and pending cases under the NDPS Act. Preliminary investigation revealed that the consignment originated from Odisha and was transported through Andhra Pradesh, specifically via Anakapalli, before being routed into Tamil Nadu.
Modus Operandi
The traffickers had deliberately altered routes and concealment methods to evade detection, with the consignment ultimately intended for delivery to a receiver based in Tuticorin. Investigation revealed that the mastermind of the network and the vehicle owner was from Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, and efforts are underway to apprehend them.
Ongoing Investigations
NCB sleuths are continuing to probe the case to identify other members of the syndicate, while parallel financial investigations are being carried out to trace the money trail and uncover the broader network involved in the illicit trade.
Impact on Drug Supply Chain
This seizure has disrupted a major supply chain feeding narcotics from eastern states into southern India. In 2026, the NCB Chennai Zonal Unit has seized 2,427.35 kilograms of ganja, along with 87.64 kilograms of hashish oil and 1.045 kilograms of amphetamine. They have arrested 14 individuals and seized drugs worth approximately ₹18.75 crore. In addition, legal proceedings in earlier cases have resulted in the conviction of eight accused across three cases.
