Sat Jan 03 13:51:59 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a news article based on the provided text:
Mangaluru Police Bust Drug Operation, Seize Over 21kg of Cannabis
Mangaluru, India – January 3, 2026 – The Surathkal police arrested two individuals on Saturday and seized 21.45 kilograms of cannabis, with an estimated street value of ₹10.72 lakh (approximately $14,000 USD), intended for sale during the New Year celebrations.
The accused, identified as Pradeep Poojary, 32, and Vasantha, 42, were apprehended in Parameshwarinagara, Chokkabettu, while allegedly waiting in a car to sell the drugs to prospective buyers. In addition to the cannabis, police confiscated three mobile phones, the vehicle used for transportation, strips for cannabis consumption, and ₹1,000 in cash.
Police investigation revealed the suspects procured the cannabis from Orissa in December of last year with the intent to distribute it in Mangaluru during the New Year period. However, heightened police vigilance prevented them from selling the drugs, leading them to store it in their vehicle.
A case has been registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, and an investigation is underway. Police revealed that Pradeep Poojary has a prior criminal record, facing multiple charges including assault, attempted murder, attempted dacoity, and previous violations of the NDPS Act.
The arrests were made by a team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police (North) K Srikanth and Surathkal Police Inspector Pramod Kumar. The police department commends the work of police team for their work in catching the suspects.
Summary of the text:
The article reports on the arrest of two individuals in Surathkal, Mangaluru, for possessing and intending to sell a large quantity of cannabis. The police seized the drugs, a vehicle, mobile phones, and cash. The suspects had reportedly obtained the cannabis from Orissa to sell during the New Year but were foiled by increased police presence. One of the accused has a history of criminal activity.
First Piper 