Bhanjanagar, Oct.5 (Nilu Bisoyi):The Bhanjanagar Excise Department conducted a raid on the illegal transportation of ganja from Kandhamal district to other states and seized 40 kg of ganja along with a high-end Thar vehicle. Mahendra Behera of Kandhamal district, who was allegedly involved in the illegal transportation, was arrested and forwarded to court.According to information, the Excise Department had earlier received confidential information about ganja being smuggled through Bhanjanagar, Pahanda and adjoining areas of Ganjam district. Acting on the tip-off, a special team led by the Excise IIC conducted patrolling and checking at various suspected locations.During patrolling, the Excise team spotted a suspicious Thar vehicle near Pahanda Chhak and became suspicious. On checking the vehicle, the officials found 40 kg of ganja concealed inside it.The accused, Mahendra Behera, who was allegedly involved in the illegal trade, was apprehended at the spot and arrested. The Excise Department registered a case and forwarded him to court.Further investigation is underway to determine where the ganja had been sourced from and to whom it was being transported, Excise OIC Bibhu Prasad Sahu said.
