West Bengal: Kolkata STF, Purulia police seize massive marijuana consignment; 7 arrested

Purulia : In a joint operation, the Kolkata Special Task Force (STF) and the Purulia District Police busted an inter-state drug smuggling network on National Highway 18, seizing a large consignment of marijuana (ganja) and arresting seven individuals.

In an X post, West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday hailed the authorities for the successful crackdown. “I commend the swift, coordinated and resolute action of our Law Enforcement Agencies. In a major breakthrough, last night @KolkataPolice STF, in coordination with the Purulia District Police, successfully intercepted a major interstate drug trafficking operation,” he said.

Adhikari said that a truck was intercepted at the NH-18 carrying a large quantity of marijuana. In addition to the truck, police intercepted two escort vehicles travelling alongside the consignment from Odisha toward Asansol. A total of seven individuals have been detained in connection with the trafficking operation.

“Acting on a tip-off, a truck was intercepted on NH-18 near the Belkuri Toll Plaza under Purulia Muffasil PS. A large quantity of contraband (marijuana) was recovered from a specially concealed cavity behind the driver’s seat. Two escort vehicles moving from Odisha towards Asansol alongside the truck were also intercepted, and 7 individuals have been detained in total,” he said.

The West Bengal CM emphasised that the State government maintains a zero tolerance policy against illegal drug trafficking and other unlawful activities, threatening the safety and well-being of our Youth and Society.”I appreciate our Police Personnel for their relentless vigilance and dedication. We will continue to root out criminal networks with an iron fist,” he said.