Hyderabad: Medchal police, along with the special operations team (SOT) of Quthbullapur, busted an illegal seed transport racket and seized 3,000 kg of banned BG-III cotton seeds worth ₹90 lakh, arresting two persons. Acting on specific intelligence, police intercepted a mini truck near the Outer Ring Road. On inspection, the cotton seed consignment was found concealed beneath cabbage sacks, indicating an attempt to evade checks. Investigations revealed that the operation was allegedly masterminded by Maguluri Samba Shivarao, who is absconding. Police said the banned seeds were being transported from Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh to Nagpur in Maharashtra. The vehicle, owned by Chevula Narsimulu, was reportedly hired for ₹30,000 to move the consignment. The truck was driven by Talari Ramesh, with Narsimulu accompanying him. Police said the identity of the receiver in Nagpur was to be disclosed only after the consignment reached its destination. The seizure included the banned seeds and the vehicle valued at ₹8 lakh, taking the total to ₹98 lakh. Police said Shivarao and Narsimulu have prior involvement in similar offences registered in 2025 at Atmakur police station in Suryapet district. The arrested persons were produced before a judicial magistrate. Efforts are on to nab the absconding accused and trace the wider network behind the illegal seed trade.
