Gajapati, Ap 14: In a major anti-narcotics operation, police in Odisha’s Gajapati district have seized more than two quintals of cannabis that had been buried underground. The joint raid was conducted in a forested area near Bhimanpur village under Kirama Gram Panchayat in Nuagada block, based on specific intelligence. The operation was led by SDPO R. Udayagiri and Rakesh Kumar Sahu, with personnel from R. Udayagiri Police Station and Chandragiri outpost participating.

Officials confirmed that around 210 kilograms of cannabis were recovered from 67 plastic sacks buried beneath the soil. The contraband was weighed in the presence of an Executive Magistrate, and authorities estimate its market value exceeds ₹2 crore. Investigations are ongoing to identify those involved in the operation.

Authorities noted that nearly 11 tonnes of cannabis have been seized across Gajapati district in recent drives, highlighting the scale of illegal cultivation and trafficking in the region. Police also warned that traffickers are increasingly using sophisticated methods, such as burying cannabis underground in remote forested areas and near residential zones, to evade detection. Investigators said this evolving modus operandi reflects a well-organized network working to stay ahead of law enforcement efforts.