Vizag Police Intensify Crackdown on Ganja Trade with 129 Convictions and Major Property Seizures
The Vizag Range police have achieved a significant milestone in their fight against illegal drug trafficking, securing 129 convictions in 72 ganja-related cases between June 2024 and April 2026. In a parallel enforcement action, properties valued at over Rs 11.6 crore belonging to 18 identified ganja smugglers have been confiscated. Authorities have also submitted proposals to invoke the stringent PIT NDPS Act against 114 accused individuals, reflecting a robust legal approach to curb narcotics activities.
Spike in Illegal Drug Trade Prompts Enhanced Enforcement Measures
This surge in convictions and seizures mirrors a notable increase in both the volume of illegal drug trade and the intensity of raids conducted by enforcement agencies across the region. Deputy Inspector General of Visakha Range, Gopinath Jatti, highlighted that over recent years, arrests of ganja smugglers and property seizures under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act have been on the rise in districts including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Alluri Sitharama Raju (ASR), Anakapalle, and Parvathipuram Manyam. This uptick is directly attributed to heightened enforcement efforts and strategic policing.
Comprehensive Review and 100-Day Action Plan to Eradicate Drug Supply
In a decisive move, DIG Gopinath Jatti conducted a comprehensive review meeting with the superintendents of police from all five districts to assess progress and control measures under the NDPS framework. During this session, he directed officials to implement a 100-day action plan aimed at completely eradicating the supply and use of drugs within the Vizag Range. This plan underscores a commitment to proactive and sustained anti-narcotics operations.
Inter-State Smuggling and Popular Sheelavathi Strain from AOB Region
Police investigations have revealed that inter-state smugglers are primarily procuring cannabis from parts of neighboring Odisha, with the contraband being smuggled through the Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) region. A unique strain of cannabis known as Sheelavathi, predominantly cultivated in the AOB area, has been gaining popularity in various parts of the country, adding complexity to the trafficking network. Authorities have issued orders to conduct thorough investigations into the financial transactions and assets of those involved in the cannabis trade within the Visakha Range.
Innovative Transport Methods Despite Increased Enforcement
Despite the rise in arrests and seizures, inter-state drug peddlers have been adopting innovative methods to transport ganja. Sources indicate that weed is being sourced from locations such as Rayagada, Udayagiri, Brahmapur, and Parlakhemundi in Odisha, and then transported using cars and trains to destinations across the country. This adaptability highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in disrupting sophisticated smuggling operations.
The Vizag police's concerted efforts, marked by convictions, property seizures, and strategic planning, demonstrate a firm stance against narcotics, aiming to safeguard communities from the perils of drug abuse and trafficking.
