CHATRA – Police seized illegal opium husk worth nearly ₹50 lakh during a major anti-smuggling operation in Simaria.
The operation was conducted by Simaria police in Palamu division’s neighboring Chatra district. Officers acted after receiving secret information regarding narcotics transportation.
Meanwhile, a police team led by the Simaria Sub-Divisional Police Officer launched a blockade operation. Station in-charge Surya Pratap Singh and IRB personnel joined the raid.
Police intercepted an Ertiga and a Honda Amaze on the Chatra-Simaria road. Both vehicles were reportedly coming from the Chatra side.
However, the drivers escaped into nearby forest areas using darkness as cover. Police launched search operations immediately after the suspects fled.
During vehicle inspection, officers recovered 169 kilograms of opium husk from the Ertiga. Another 155 kilograms was seized from the Honda Amaze.
Moreover, the total seized quantity reached 324 kilograms during the operation. Police estimated the market value at nearly ₹50 lakh.
Investigators believe the consignment was being transported to Hazaribagh. Authorities suspect an organized narcotics network behind the smuggling attempt.
Meanwhile, police registered a case under the NDPS Act following the seizure. Raids are continuing to trace the absconding traffickers.
The seizure is considered a major success against interstate narcotics smuggling. Police officials stated that strict surveillance has been increased across sensitive routes.
Chatra police seized 324 kilograms of illegal opium husk worth ₹50 lakh in Simaria and recovered two vehicles used for smuggling operations.
