14-Member Ganja-Smuggling Gang Busted in Anantapur

KURNOOL: Anantapur police have arrested a 14-member drug peddling gang and seized seven kg of ganja. In the process, it has exposed a well-organised network operating in Anantapur district.

District superintendent of police P. Jagadeesh disclosed on Thursday that innovative use of ganja testing kits has played a crucial role in busting the racket.

The kingpin of the gang is Shikari Suresh (36), a resident of Nehru Colony. He is a history-sheeter with multiple cases against him, including of thefts, excise violations, and offences related to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.

Acting on Shikari Suresh’s directions, the gang sourced ganja from an unidentified supplier near Guntakal Railway Station for ₹10,000 per kg. Gang members then transported the contraband to Anantapur with the help of close aides, all of whom with prior criminal records.

Once in the city, nine other members of the gang pack the ganja into small packets and sell them at higher prices, targeting habitual users and youth.

Police identified the narcotic consumers through ganja testing kits, leading to capture of the sellers. Using their lead, officials conducted surveillance and interrogations, eventually tracing the supply chain and arresting all the accused.

Among those arrested are Shikari Mallappa, Bharat, Parashuram, and Ravi. Police said counselling is being provided to users, while strict action will continue to be taken against the narcotic suppliers.

The SP reiterated that the police department is committed to eliminating ganja menace in the district through proactive and technology-driven policing.