A coordinated effort by the Crime Intelligence Branch (CIB), Government Railway Police (GRP), and the Railway Protection Force (RPF) has led to a substantial seizure of approximately 190 kilograms of ganja. The illicit narcotics, estimated to be worth ₹9.79 lakhs, were confiscated during a series of strategic operations conducted across the Vijayawada Division.
Public Relations Officer Nusrat M. Mandrupkar confirmed that these surprise raids were carried out between October 24 and October 30. The extensive anti-smuggling drive, aptly named ‘Operation NARCOS,’ focused on vital railway hubs including Rajahmundry, Samalkot, Gudur, Ongole, and Bapatla, specifically targeting ganja trafficking via the rail network.
Ms. Mandrupkar elaborated that the success of Operation NARCOS stemmed from a combination of credible intelligence inputs, tips from anonymous informants, and crucial passenger complaints channeled through the ‘Rail Madad’ helpline. These diverse sources enabled law enforcement agencies to effectively pinpoint and dismantle ganja smuggling operations, leading to the significant confiscation of marijuana.
Following the seizures, GRP officials have initiated legal proceedings, registering cases under the stringent Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 at the respective railway stations. An investigating officer revealed that comprehensive investigations are currently underway to trace the origins and networks behind these drug consignments.
The primary objective of this intensive operation, according to Ms. Nusrat, was to bolster passenger safety both on moving trains and within railway premises. She further highlighted that dedicated Crime Prevention and Detection Squads (CPDS) are maintaining continuous surveillance to thwart any future attempts at ganja smuggling.