Law enforcement agencies have seized 439 kilograms of cannabis valued at approximately ₹1.10 crore during a joint operation near Mirzapur, exposing what investigators suspect may be part of a larger interstate narcotics trafficking network.
One alleged drug courier has been arrested in connection with the case.
Cannabis Hidden Beneath Plastic Crates
The contraband was allegedly being transported from Odisha to Prayagraj in a DCM vehicle.
During a search near the Pachokhara-Kasopur tri-junction in the Marihan area, officials recovered bags containing cannabis concealed beneath stacks of empty plastic crates.
The accused has been identified as Amarjeet Yadav alias Pahalwan, a resident of Gorakhpur district.
The vehicle driver was also taken into custody for questioning. Police seized mobile phones and cash during the operation.
Odisha-Prayagraj Route Under Probe
According to investigators, the consignment originated from Odisha and was being transported to Prayagraj.
Authorities believe the concealment method indicates an organised attempt to evade routine vehicle checks and interstate enforcement surveillance.
Officials are now examining the transport route, logistics chain and digital communication records connected to the shipment.
Alleged Supplier Network Being Traced
During questioning, Amarjeet allegedly disclosed that he had travelled to Rayagada in Odisha on the instructions of Abhishek Shukla alias Guruji, a resident of Prayagraj, to collect the consignment.
He reportedly claimed that the cannabis was to be delivered to the same individual in Prayagraj.
Investigators are verifying these claims and working to identify the role of other suspected members of the network.
Multiple Suspects Under Scanner
The accused also allegedly stated that Rajat Singh of Ghazipur and Shubham Singh of Rayagada helped load the cannabis into the vehicle.
He further claimed that he was paid ₹1 lakh per consignment and had transported similar consignments on earlier occasions.
Police are examining whether the case is linked to a larger supply chain involving procurement, transportation and distribution of narcotics across multiple states.
Case Registered Under NDPS Act
Police have registered a case under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Investigators are analysing:
- Mobile phone records
- Financial transactions
- Travel history
- Vehicle ownership details
- Communication data
- Links to suppliers and recipients
Further raids and arrests are expected as the probe continues.
Shunyatax Global Insight
The Mirzapur cannabis seizure highlights how interstate narcotics networks use ordinary transport vehicles, concealed cargo and layered logistics to move contraband across state borders. Stronger highway intelligence, digital tracking, financial analysis and inter-state police coordination are essential to dismantle such organised drug trafficking chains.
Stay connected with Shunyatax Global for verified updates on crime, narcotics enforcement, cyber investigations and public safety.