In a major crackdown on narcotics smuggling, the Bhopal Crime Branch seized 170.09 kilograms of cannabis and recovered assets worth nearly ₹1.33 crore during an operation conducted in the Kolar Road area.

The action also led to the arrest of a truck driver allegedly involved in transporting the contraband.

According to police officials, the operation was carried out near Gol Jod Tiraha in Kolar Road, where a cargo truck was intercepted based on specific inputs. During the search, officers discovered six sacks containing cannabis concealed inside the vehicle.

The accused, identified as Anand Bairagi, was taken into custody at the spot.

Property Worth Over ₹1 Crore Recovered

Apart from the narcotics, the Crime Branch recovered a cargo truck valued at around ₹30 lakh and 396 aluminium ingots. The total value of the seized property has been estimated at approximately ₹1.33 crore, making it one of the significant recoveries made by the unit in recent times.

Police said the recovered aluminium ingots bore the marking “NALCO”, prompting investigators to examine their origin and determine whether they are linked to any separate case of theft or illegal transportation.

Officials indicated that the recovery has added another dimension to the investigation.

Cannabis Hidden Inside Six Sacks

Preliminary investigations revealed that the cannabis was packed in six sacks and carefully concealed inside the truck to avoid detection. The vehicle was allegedly being used to transport the consignment through Bhopal when the Crime Branch intercepted it.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the intended destination of the narcotics or whether other individuals are involved in the smuggling network. Investigators are currently questioning the arrested driver and examining possible links to a larger interstate racket.

Probe Underway Into Wider Network

Officials said further investigations are underway to trace the source of the seized cannabis and identify other members of the alleged network. The police are also verifying documents related to the recovered aluminium ingots and the truck.

The Crime Branch has intensified efforts against narcotics trafficking and organised crime, with the latest operation highlighting its continued focus on dismantling illegal supply chains. More arrests and recoveries are likely as investigators pursue leads emerging from the case.

Police officials said additional details would be shared as the investigation progresses