The Kalyan Railway Police have achieved a major breakthrough in their fight against narcotics trafficking by dismantling an extensive interstate cannabis smuggling network that operated across Goa, Odisha, and Maharashtra. This operation resulted in the arrest of five individuals, marking a significant step in curbing drug-related crimes in these states. The investigation, which lasted several weeks, involved meticulous surveillance, technical analysis, and coordination with local law enforcement agencies in Goa and Odisha.
Authorities identified the arrested individuals as Nikkikumar Hardev Shah (19) and Kuldeep Raju Mahato Mandal (26), both from Begusarai, Bihar; Ashrof Sunar Khan (21) from South Goa; Vidyadhar Laxmi Nayak (43) from Odisha; and Srikant Mander Pradhan (38), also from Odisha. Following their arrest in Goa and Odisha, the suspects were transported to Kalyan, where they remain in police custody under judicial orders. The investigation originated from a case registered at the Kalyan Railway Police Station concerning cannabis trafficking.
- Initial Arrests Yielded 22 Kilograms of Cannabis — Investigators first apprehended Shah and Mahato, seizing a substantial amount of cannabis valued at several lakh rupees.
- Cannabis Route Traced from Odisha to Goa — The preliminary investigation revealed that the cannabis was being transported from Odisha to Goa for distribution.
- Special Investigation Team Formed — Under the leadership of Senior Police Inspector Archana Dusane, a special team was created to trace the trafficking chain.
During the investigation, the police discovered that the cannabis was sourced from the Kandhamal district of Odisha, an area noted for its challenging terrain and Maoist activity. This led to the arrest of Ashraf Khan in Margao, Goa. Khan reportedly disclosed that the cannabis originated from this remote region, prompting further inquiries into the cultivation practices there.
As the police delved deeper, they collaborated with the Daringbadi Police in Odisha, leading to the arrest of Vidyadhar Nayak. Nayak admitted to purchasing cannabis from Srikant Pradhan, who allegedly cultivated it in a region impacted by Maoist insurgency. The investigative team spent six days navigating the remote hills and forests to track Pradhan's movements, ultimately apprehending him in a secluded area.
After securing a transit order from the court, police transported all five suspects back to Kalyan for further questioning. The interrogations revealed crucial details about the trafficking network, including the primary suppliers, intermediaries, and distribution channels utilized to transport cannabis to Goa and Maharashtra. This operation highlights a well-organized supply chain that spans multiple states, illustrating the ongoing battle against narcotics trafficking in the region.
Officials from the Kalyan Railway Police noted that this is not the first time they have successfully disrupted interstate narcotics networks. Just a few months prior, a significant operation resulted in the arrest of a 20-member cannabis trafficking syndicate operating between Odisha and Maharashtra, led by Deputy Commissioner Atul Zende. Authorities continue to investigate potential links to additional individuals and supply routes that may still be active across the three states, indicating that the fight against drug trafficking remains a critical concern.
