Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 8: In a strong action against drug trafficking via train routes, the Railway Protection Force (RPF) of Central Railway seized 43 kilograms of narcotics worth approximately Rs 12.82 lakh in two separate operations conducted earlier this month at Nagpur and Kalaburagi. Railway officials said the operations revealed the existence of a narcotics smuggling syndicate using railways for illicit transportation.
According to a press release by Dr Swapnil Nila, the seizures were carried out during targeted surveillance and joint enforcement drives conducted by RPF in coordination with the Government Railway Police (GRP).
Nagpur Operation:
On February 6, an RPF team at Nagpur station, comprising an Inspector, an Assistant Sub-Inspector, and two personnel, intercepted a man carrying two bags during routine surveillance. Upon searching the bags in the presence of witnesses, the team recovered nine packets of ganja weighing 24.80 kg, valued at Rs 3.72 lakh.
The accused was identified as Shahid Khan, a resident of Bhind, Madhya Pradesh. He reportedly admitted to transporting the narcotics to Gwalior. Khan was taken into custody and handed over to the GRP in Nagpur for further legal proceedings.
Kalaburagi Operation:
Earlier, on February 3, RPF personnel conducted a joint check with the GRP at Kalaburagi station based on specific intelligence. During inspection of the Konark Express, an unclaimed bag under berth number 41 in Coach B-1 was found to contain 18 bundles of ganja weighing 18.20 kg, with an estimated value of Rs 9.10 lakh. The bag was seized following proper procedures, and a case has been registered at the Wadi Police Station against an unknown individual.
Railway authorities highlighted the coordinated efforts between the RPF and GRP in tackling drug trafficking through India’s railway network. The press release stated that the operations “showcase exemplary coordination between Central Railway RPF and GRP and their unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking.”
Passengers have been urged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to railway authorities or via the railway helpline number 139