Nagpur: In a major crackdown on interstate drug trafficking, the Social Security Branch (SSB) of Nagpur Crime Branch busted an alleged interstate ganja smuggling racket and arrested one accused currently residing in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, while seizing 31.5 kg of ganja, a truck, and other valuables collectively worth over ₹23 lakh.
The operation was conducted under the jurisdiction of Wadi Police Station between 2:40 am and 6:45 am on June 20, 2026, at a public spot opposite EDM Adda Hotel on the Amravati–Nagpur Road in Nagpur.
The arrested accused has been identified as Mohammad Shafiq Mohammad Zaharuddin Khan (32), originally from Sadbhavana Society, Vadodara, Vareli, Surat in Gujarat, and presently residing in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh.
Police have also named Ayaz Khan as a wanted accused in the case.
During the operation, officials recovered:
- 31.500 kg of ganja valued at approximately ₹7.87 lakh
- One mobile phone worth around ₹20,000
- One truck valued at approximately ₹15 lakh
The total value of seized property is estimated at ₹23.07 lakh.
According to police, preliminary investigation suggests the accused was allegedly transporting and possessing the contraband for illegal sale after obtaining it through the interstate network linked to the wanted accused.
A case has been registered under Crime No. 294/2026 under Sections 8(c), 20(c), 2(c), and 29 of the NDPS Act, and further investigation is underway at Wadi Police Station.
The action was carried out by the Social Security Branch, Crime Branch, Nagpur City Police, under the supervision of Police Inspector Darshan Patil.
