Khordha, Aug 21: In a major crackdown on illegal drug trafficking, the Excise Department officials seized ganja worth over Rs 1 crore near Chandeswar village in Tangi Tehsil of Odisha’s Khordha district and arrested one person in this connection.
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The arrested accused has been identified as Priya Ranjan Panda, a resident of Gudum village in Khorda district.
Acting on a tip-off regarding the smuggling of ganja, the officials intercepted a van near near Chandeshwar on National Highway-16 and conducted a search operation, during which they discovered 10 quintals and 50 kilograms of ganja from hidden inside the vehicle.
The van was reportedly traveling from Gajapati district to Puri carrying the ganja.
A detailed investigation has been launched into the smuggling operation, suspecting a larger network behind the illicit trade, said an official.