G. Udayagiri, Nov 19: In a breakthrough, the Chakapada Police in Kandhamal successfully arrested three individuals linked to the illegal ganja trade in the region. The police operation, which took place near the Tadipaja forest area, led to the seizure of one bullet car, and a total of 10,500 grams of ganja.

The arrested have been identified as Balmiki Pradhan and Raut Pradhan, both from the Sarangada police station area, and an associate named Khuntia, who hails from Nayagarh. Police have filed a case under section 115/2025 at Chakapada police station, and investigations are underway.

Despite ongoing efforts to destroy ganja crops across the district, illegal ganja cultivation continues in several parts of Kandhamal. Police report that ganja is still being traded daily, often making its way to other locations that remain unknown to the authorities.

Regions like Firingia, Gochapada, Sarangada, Raikia, Tikabali, and several others in the district have been identified as hotspots for ganja cultivation. Local police are actively monitoring and working to curb this illegal activity.