Over 10,300 kg of Ganja Seized in Major Police Raids Across Kandhamal and Gajapati
Kandhamal: Today, the police conducted extensive raids in five police station areas across Kandhamal and Gajapati districts, seizing a substantial quantity of ganja. Over 10,300 kg of ganja was confiscated during the operation. This action follows the directive of DGP Shri Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, who had instructed SPs across various districts to intensify efforts to curb illegal ganja trafficking. Acting on these instructions, the SPs of Kandhamal and Gajapati districts formed dedicated teams that conducted raids in several locations.
In Kandhamal district, the Gochhapada police seized 3,675 kg of ganja from a forest near Budenipanka village under Kateringia Gram Panchayat. Similarly, Phulbani Sadar police confiscated 1,440 kg from a forest near Nikininda village under Bilbadi Gram Panchayat, Tumudibandha police seized 615 kg from Banimila forest under Kurthaguda Gram Panchayat, and Brahmanigaon police recovered 2,555 kg from a forest near Rajanagar. Additionally, in Gajapati district, the R. Udayagiri police seized 20 quintals, 20 kg, and 200 grams of ganja during a raid near Ridhima village. Police investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend those involved in the illegal trade.
The police revealed that smugglers often hide ganja in abandoned forest locations before trafficking it. Acting on credible information, the police launched these raids. The DGP has reinforced the state police’s commitment to eradicating ganja cultivation, instructing senior officers to ensure this anti-narcotics campaign is effectively implemented at the grassroots level. This special operation will continue until March 31, 2025, with a strong focus on eliminating illegal ganja cultivation entirely.
