Gajapati, Oct 14: In a major crackdown, the Excise Department in Paralakhemundi has busted a ganja smuggling operation at the foothills of Labanya Garh in Gosani block, Gajapati district. Acting on a tip-off, officials raided the area and seized around 450 kilograms of ganja concealed inside a secret chamber of a container vehicle.

Two individuals were arrested during the raid. According to officials, the estimated market value of the seized contraband is approximately ₹45.10 lakh.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the container—registered in Haryana—was being used to smuggle ganja from Odisha to northern states. The sophisticated concealment method indicates the involvement of an organized smuggling network.

“The smugglers had modified the container to create a hidden compartment for transporting the ganja. Based on credible intelligence, we conducted a swift raid and managed to seize both the vehicle and the contraband,” said an official from the Excise Department.

Further investigation is underway to trace the broader network and identify other individuals involved in the smuggling operation.