Surat Police Uncover Major Drug Haul, Seize Poppy Straw Worth Rs 1.55 Crore
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, the Local Crime Branch (LCB) of Surat Rural police executed a major operation on Thursday, resulting in the seizure of a massive quantity of poppy straw. The contraband, weighing 1,034 kilograms and valued at approximately Rs 1.55 crore, was intercepted from a container truck near Kadodara Crossroads.
Arrests Made and Vehicle Impounded in Coordinated Raid
Following the seizure, authorities have arrested two individuals identified as Shravan Bishnoi and Vikram Godara. Additionally, police have declared Vikas Bishnoi as a wanted suspect in connection with this case. The truck used for transportation, estimated to be worth Rs 20 lakh, has also been confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.
Intelligence-Led Operation Uncovers Concealed Compartment
The successful bust was the result of meticulous planning based on inputs from human intelligence and technical surveillance. The LCB team meticulously tracked the container truck to Kadodara Crossroads, where they conducted an initial inspection. Despite no immediate signs of suspicious activity during the preliminary check, a thorough and in-depth search revealed a specially created concealed compartment within the container. This hidden space contained the large stash of poppy straw, highlighting the sophisticated methods employed by the traffickers.
Investigation Reveals Cross-State Drug Trafficking Network
Preliminary inquiries by the police indicate that the accused had procured the poppy straw from Rajasthan and were in the process of transporting it to another undisclosed location. A case has been officially registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, underscoring the severity of the offense. Law enforcement agencies are now intensifying their efforts to identify the supplier and the intended recipient, with further investigation actively underway to dismantle the broader network involved in this illicit trade.