Mon Feb 23 17:49:32 UTC 2026: # Cross-State Drug Trafficking Ring Busted in Ranipet, India

The Story:
On February 23, 2026, Walajah police in Ranipet arrested three individuals for possession of 42 kg of ganja. The suspects, identified as S. Mahendra Sahu (36) from Odisha, Mohammed Basha (35) from Vellore, and Mohammed Asheem Khan (21) from Kerala, were apprehended near the Walajah Road railway station after giving contradictory answers during an inquiry. The arrests were part of a larger crackdown on drug trafficking in the district, initiated by Ayman Jamal, SP, Ranipet.

The seized ganja was reportedly intended for retail sale among workers in industrial sites in Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Puducherry. The arrested individuals are currently lodged at Central Prison in Vellore, and a probe is underway.

Key Points:

  • Date: February 23, 2026
  • Location: Ranipet, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Suspects: S. Mahendra Sahu (36), Mohammed Basha (35), Mohammed Asheem Khan (21)
  • Quantity of Ganja: 42 kg
  • Intended Destination: Industrial sites in Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Puducherry

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the ongoing problem of drug trafficking across state lines in India.
  • The police crackdown in Ranipet indicates a proactive approach to combating drug-related crime.
  • The intended market for the drugs – industrial workers – suggests a targeted distribution network.

Impact Analysis:

The bust could disrupt the local drug supply chain in the Chennai, Kancheepuram, and Puducherry industrial areas, potentially reducing drug-related issues among the workforce. However, the long-term impact will depend on sustained law enforcement efforts and addressing the root causes of drug demand among industrial workers. The incident also underscores the need for inter-state cooperation to effectively tackle drug trafficking networks operating across regional boundaries.

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