Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: The MIDC Cidco police seized 53.4kg of marijuana, valued at Rs 26.7 lakh, and arrested three men in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, while launching a manhunt for an absconding accused from Odisha believed to be a key supplier.Police commissioner Pravin Pawar said the action is the result of intensified surveillance against narcotics networks. “We have adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards drug-related offences. Such actions will continue, and those involved in trafficking will be dealt with strictly under the NDPS Act,” he said.An FIR was registered under sections 8(c), 20(b)(ii)(C) and 29 of the NDPS Act, 1985.The arrested accused have been identified as Videsh Machre (38), a driver from Bhat Nagar in Naregaon, along with Kishor Hatkar and Rahul Malke, all residents of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.The police said they are also probing the role of a Jalgaon native. Another accused from Odisha, believed to be a key supplier, was absconding.A MIDC Cidco inspector said the action is based on a tip-off received by the police team working on a crackdown on drug peddlers.“We received specific information that the accused had arrived near Kakde Complex in Chhatrapati Nagar, Naregaon, with a large quantity of marijuana for sale. A trap was laid and the suspect was intercepted at the spot,” said inspector Jadhav.During the search, police recovered 53.441kg of marijuana (cannabis) valued at Rs 26,72,050 from a white car. The vehicle, estimated to be worth Rs 5 lakh, was also seized, taking the total value of the haul to Rs 31,72,050.Preliminary investigation revealed that the contraband was procured in bulk and was meant for local distribution. “We are verifying the source of supply and identifying the network involved. The role of the absconding accused is crucial,” Jadhav added.Further investigation is being carried out by assistant inspector Kailash Lahane.
