Kalimela police achieved a major breakthrough by seizing 1,250 kilograms of ganja from the forest area of Vejangiwada under Kalimela block in Malkangiri district.
Acting on a tip-off, police raided the spot on February 8 and recovered the contraband packed in 54 plastic bags.
Kalimela IIC Prabhudatta Biswal confirmed the seizure and estimated the market value of the ganja at nearly Rs 1 crore. The operation took place in the presence of an Executive Magistrate.
Sources revealed that traffickers fled the scene before police arrived. Investigators suspect the seized ganja was intended for illegal transport to neighbouring states, including Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Maharashtra.
Police registered Case No. 26/08.02.2026 under Section 20(b)(ii)(C) of the NDPS Act. Efforts are underway to identify those involved in the smuggling network and trace the origin of the consignment.
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