Major Ganja Smuggling Racket Busted in Andhra Pradesh, Five Arrested
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Nathavaram police in Anakapalle district, Andhra Pradesh, have apprehended five individuals for their involvement in a large-scale ganja smuggling operation. The arrests were made on Monday following the interception of two vehicles transporting a massive consignment of 168 kilograms of dry ganja, with an estimated street value of approximately Rs 84 lakh.
Details of the Arrested Accused and Their Roles
The police have identified the arrested persons, detailing their specific roles within the smuggling network. Gullupalli Haribabu (36), from Mandapeta in East Godavari district, is alleged to be the mastermind behind the operation. Vanthala Davidu (30) and Bonda Prabhakar Rao (30), both hailing from Alluri Sitarama Raju (ASR) district, were responsible for sourcing the ganja. Korra Bonjubabu (50), also from ASR district, and Veeravalli Durga Rao alias Prasad (30), from Mandapeta in East Godavari district, were additional accomplices involved in the transportation. Two other suspects, Machavarapu Prasad and Vanthala Eliya, managed to flee the scene and are currently absconding, with police efforts underway to locate them.
Mastermind's Criminal Network and Modus Operandi
According to Narsipatnam sub-division DSP, P Srinivasa Rao, the prime accused, Haribabu, has a history of involvement in NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases. While serving time in prison, he reportedly developed connections with ganja suppliers from the ASR district. Upon his release, Haribabu meticulously planned his operations to avoid detection. He purchased around 15 SIM cards and four keypad mobile phones to communicate covertly with his associates, ensuring minimal digital footprint.
To facilitate the transportation, Haribabu invested in two Bolero vans, which were modified with specialized hidden cabins specifically designed for concealing large quantities of cannabis. This sophisticated setup allowed the gang to operate discreetly across state lines.
Extent of Smuggling Operations and Financial Gains
The gang's activities were not isolated incidents but part of an extensive smuggling network. Police investigations reveal that the group had successfully transported ganja to Dindigul in Tamil Nadu on more than 12 separate occasions. In the retail market, they sold the weed for over Rs 50,000 per kilogram, generating substantial illicit profits. For each smuggling trip, Haribabu distributed a portion of the earnings, paying his associates Rs 1 lakh each from the proceeds, incentivizing their continued participation in the criminal enterprise.
Police Interception and Seizure
The recent bust occurred when the gang was in the process of transporting over 168 kilograms of dry weed in the two modified Bolero vans, en route to Tamil Nadu. Acting on intelligence or surveillance, the Nathavaram police intercepted the vehicles, leading to the arrest of the five accused and the seizure of the contraband. This operation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Andhra Pradesh to combat drug trafficking and disrupt organized crime networks operating in the region.
The case underscores the challenges posed by repeat offenders leveraging prison networks and advanced concealment methods. Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover further details and apprehend the remaining absconding suspects.
