KOLLAM: In a major crackdown on ganja distribution network in Karunagappally, an excise team on Thursday arrested Salu, 19, of Chenkal Choola in Thiruvananthapuram. A shadow team disguised as customers led by Karunagappally range inspector A. Jose Prathap took him from near the KSRTC bus stand in the morning.
The crackdown was part of an operation initiated by the excise team at Mughammoodimukku in Karunagappally area where autorickshaw drivers and school students have been found to be primary customers.
The team traced one Poonkavanam Ansil, a leading distributor in the area, and arrested him on Wednesday leading to the arrest of Salu. Ansil used to sell ganja for Rs 500 per pouch, and the team had seized 60 from his possession. He has also revealed that one Prabith from Chenkal Choola was the key supplier in the area.
The gang including him is absconding since the arrests. Excise has intensified the search for the gang to end the menace prevalent in the area.
