In a significant crackdown on drug trafficking, the Udupi CEN police arrested Areeb Ahmad (31), a resident of Gulzar Street, Bhatkal, for possessing over 7 kg of ganja near Manipal. The ganja, allegedly sourced from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, was intended for sale in a public area.
Acting on credible intelligence, a team led by Inspector Ramachandra Nayak raided the area near 80 Badagabettu village and apprehended the suspect. Upon interrogation, Areeb failed to provide any valid documentation for possessing the narcotics.
The police seized 7.304 kilograms of ganja, valued at Rs5,75,000. Additional items recovered included two mobile phones (worth Rs20,000), a black bag, a backpack, and Rs1,520 in cash. The total value of seized goods stands at Rs5,96,520.
Areeb reportedly confessed to having obtained the contraband from a cycle rickshaw driver in Vijayawada. A case has been registered at the Udupi CEN Police Station under relevant provisions of the NDPS Act.
This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by Udupi police to curb drug-related crimes and maintain public safety in the region.
