Sun Oct 26 15:28:01 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that information:

Summary:

The Hindu newspaper reported on October 26, 2025, the Siddapura police in Bengaluru busted an interstate sandalwood smuggling racket and arrested four men from Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh. The police seized 750 kg of sandalwood, valued at ₹1.12 crore, hidden under onion loads in a goods vehicle. The arrested men were reportedly working for a smuggler named Siraj, with Ravi identified as the intended receiver of the illegal sandalwood. An investigation is currently underway.

News Article:

Interstate Sandalwood Smuggling Ring Busted in Bengaluru; Four Arrested

Bengaluru, October 26, 2025: The Siddapura police have successfully dismantled an interstate sandalwood smuggling operation, apprehending four individuals and seizing a significant quantity of illicit sandalwood. The bust occurred in Someshwara Nagar, following a tip-off that led police to intercept a suspicious goods vehicle and its SUV escort.

Upon inspection, authorities discovered 250 pieces of sandalwood, weighing approximately 750 kg, concealed beneath a layer of onions in the goods vehicle. The onions were strategically used to mask the sandalwood’s distinctive fragrance. The estimated value of the seized sandalwood is ₹1.12 crore.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Sheikh Abdul Khadar, Sheikh Sharukh (who were in the escort SUV), Parameshwar, and Ram Bhoopal (driver of the goods vehicle). All four hail from Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

Police investigations reveal the group was allegedly working for a smuggler identified as Siraj. The intended receiver of the sandalwood was identified as Ravi.

“This operation demonstrates our commitment to tackling illegal trade and protecting our natural resources,” stated a police spokesperson. “We are continuing our investigation to apprehend all those involved in this smuggling network.” The police are currently working to locate Siraj and Ravi, as well as to uncover the full extent of the smuggling operation.

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