In a significant crackdown on interstate drug trafficking, the Tejaji Nagar police in Indore have seized a massive consignment of poppy husk and arrested the truck driver involved. The contraband, weighing a substantial 87 kilograms, was discovered during a routine vehicle checking drive on the city bypass.
Nervous Driver and Ingenious Concealment
The operation unfolded when a police team stopped a truck on AB Road for inspection. The driver, identified as Butta Singh, a resident of Jalandhar in Punjab, appeared visibly nervous and even attempted to drive away, raising immediate suspicion. Upon being stopped and questioned, he failed to provide clear answers, prompting a thorough search of the vehicle.
The search revealed an elaborate concealment method. The narcotics were hidden inside specially created compartments near the diesel tank and the toolbox. Police officials confirmed that a fake diesel tank and a hidden cabin space had been fabricated specifically to store the illegal substance.
Confession and Modus Operandi
During interrogation, Butta Singh allegedly confessed to the crime and revealed his modus operandi. He stated that he learned this concealment technique from a film. The consignment was being transported from Agar Malwa district towards Punjab via Indore. To avoid suspicion on return journeys, he planned to load legal transport goods for the trip back.
The accused further admitted to having carried such consignments earlier. He was paid approximately Rs 10,000 per delivery for transporting the contraband across different states. Singh also told the police that the demand for such narcotics sees a spike during the winter season, which was the reason for moving such a large bulk quantity. Investigations also revealed that Butta Singh was already named in a previous NDPS Act case registered in Kathgarh, Punjab.
Major Seizure and Legal Proceedings
The police have registered an offence under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The total value of the seized property, including the truck and the 87 kg of poppy husk, is estimated at around Rs 35 lakh. In line with the provisions of the new criminal laws, the police conducted comprehensive audio-video documentation at the seizure site.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Krishna Lalchandani confirmed the details of the seizure and arrest. The police are now focusing on further investigation to trace the broader supply network and the buyers linked to this illegal trade. The seizure marks a major success for the Indore police in disrupting a key route of the drug trade.
