Aurangabad Police Probe Expands: More Students Linked to Hydroponic Ganja Network
Police Commissioner Pravin Pawar announced on Wednesday that investigators have identified more students enrolled in professional and degree courses at reputed colleges in Aurangabad as part of the ongoing probe into the hydroponic ganja seizure case. This development follows the arrest of two students on Tuesday with 285 grams of the illegal substance, valued at approximately Rs 28.5 lakh in the illicit market.
Students Under Scrutiny for Possible Involvement
"Some names of students from prominent colleges have surfaced during the probe. We are verifying whether they were involved as peddlers or were only consumers. Based on the findings, they may be added as co-accused in the case," Pawar stated. The investigation aims to determine the extent of involvement among the student community, with authorities meticulously examining roles in distribution versus consumption.
Details of the Initial Arrests
A 23-year-old MBA (finance) student and a 20-year-old first-year computer science engineering student were apprehended on Tuesday and are currently in police custody. "They were intercepted on Tuesday morning near Baba Petrol Pump between Lohandi Pool and Baba Petrol Pump following a tip-off. We recovered eight transparent zip-lock pouches containing hydroponic ganja, a high-potency cannabis variant grown through soil-less cultivation techniques," an officer disclosed.
High-Value Contraband and Network Mapping
Investigators highlighted that hydroponic ganja commands a significantly higher price in the illegal market due to its enhanced potency and controlled cultivation methods. "During interrogation, the accused allegedly disclosed the names of several individuals who either purchased the contraband or were in contact with them for supply. We are now analysing call records and other digital evidence extracted from the two seized smartphones to map the wider network," the officer added. This digital forensics effort is crucial for uncovering the full scope of the distribution chain.
Focus on Supply Chain and Youth Networks
Police emphasized that the probe is concentrated on identifying the supply chain and local distribution network operating among young people in Aurangabad. "We suspect the contraband was being sold in small quantities to selective groups of students," police noted, indicating a targeted operation within educational institutions. The investigation seeks to dismantle this network to prevent further spread among the youth.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
An FIR has been registered at the Kranti Chowk police station under relevant sections of the NDPS Act. Authorities are continuing their investigation to ascertain the roles of other individuals linked to the case, with further actions pending based on evidence collection and verification processes.
