In a significant drug bust, the Pune Crime Branch’s Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) seized hydroponic marijuana—locally referred to as OG—and other narcotics worth Rs5.56 lakh in Baner on Thursday. One individual, 26-year-old Arjun Totigar, was arrested in the operation.
Hydroponic marijuana, a form of cannabis cultivated in water-based nutrient solutions instead of soil, is popular in countries like Thailand, where marijuana consumption is legal. However, in India, its possession remains a serious offense under the NDPS Act.
Acting on a tip-off, ANC Squad 2, under the leadership of Police Inspector Sudarshan Gaikwad and Assistant Inspector Nitin Kumar Naik, carried out a raid near Shivshakti Chowk by the rickshaw stand in Baner. Police officer Azad Patil led the operation.
During the raid, Totigar, a resident of Sukhwani Panorama, Susgaon, was caught with 30 grams and 540 ml of hydroponic marijuana. The estimated value of the seized narcotics is Rs5,56,400. Totigar, a graduate in Marketing and Sales, is currently working in a private company.
A case has been filed under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act at Baner Police Station. Police investigations are ongoing to uncover the source of the drugs and any possible network connections.
