In a coordinated anti-narcotics operation in Pallithazham, Muvattupuzha, police have arrested two men from West Bengal for possessing 15 kg of ganja, marking one of the larger drug seizures in the region this year.
The accused, identified as 26-year-old Sagar Molla from Ranaghat and 30-year-old Dibakar Mandal from Nadia district, were taken into custody following information received by the district police chief, M Hemalatha. Acting on a tip-off, personnel from the anti-narcotic special action force and local police units conducted surveillance in key transit points before apprehending the suspects on Tuesday.
Investigations revealed that the suspects had arrived in Kerala via train, disembarking at Aluva, a major transport hub. They then transferred the consignment in an autorickshaw to Pallithazham, where they were intercepted by law enforcement officers. Police officials stated that the ganja was purchased at approximately ₹1,000 per kilogram in West Bengal and was destined for sale in local markets at roughly ₹25,000 per kilogram — indicating significant profits for dealers in regional distribution networks.
Authorities say the two men are believed to be part of a broader interstate smuggling network that transports cannabis products from eastern states such as West Bengal into Kerala, often targeting migrant labour communities and itinerant workers as buyers. Police have launched a wider inquiry to trace the network’s supply routes and local connections.
The operation included a team led by DSP J Umesh Kumar, Muvattupuzha DSP P M Baiju, and Inspector Basil Thomas, working collaboratively to ensure timely arrest and seizure of the illicit drugs. Officials noted that such large consignments pose public safety and health risks, especially when distributed within community hubs and urban neighbourhoods.
This seizure comes amid ongoing law enforcement efforts in Ernakulam district to curb narcotic trafficking. Previous operations have led to significant drug busts and multiple arrests, demonstrating a concerted crackdown on both local peddlers and interstate supply chains. Authorities say intensified patrolling, intelligence sharing, and checkpoints are key components of the anti-drug strategy.
The arrested duo will be presented before the Ernakulam Rural Sessions Court, where they will face charges under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Police expect additional arrests as the investigation unfolds.
Public reaction in Muvattupuzha reflects growing concern over drug circulation in residential and commercial areas, and community leaders have called for enhanced preventive education alongside enforcement measures.
News as reported
