The Government Railway Police (GRP) in Koraput, Odisha, arrested a young man and a woman for attempting to smuggle large quantities of ganja (dry cannabis) disguised as tourists.
The duo was caught aboard two separate trains with 20 kg and 10 kg of the illegal substance, respectively.
Investigations have uncovered a disturbing trend where traffickers exploit women as couriers to evade suspicion. Over the past ten months alone, 15 individuals, including six women, were arrested in the area for ganja smuggling.
According to law enforcement officials, traffickers send women on sightseeing trips to blend in with genuine travellers. Upon their return, these women carry large quantities of ganja to other states.
Authorities have intensified surveillance at key transit points to dismantle the networks exploiting tourism as a front for illegal activities. The GRP and excise departments are collaborating to curb this rising menace and protect genuine tourists and travellers.