Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Mar 9: In a historic crackdown, Goa police have arrested a man in Guirim village with 11.672 kg of hydroponic weed worth Rs 11.67 cr, marking the state’s biggest-ever drug seizure.

A police spokesperson confirmed the arrest, stating that the accused has been booked under the NDPS Act. The bust follows a month-long intelligence operation by the crime branch, with further investigations underway to determine links to larger drug syndicates.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant lauded law enforcement agencies, calling it a testament to their relentless efforts in keeping Goa drug-free. He reiterated the government's zero-tolerance policy on drugs and vowed to strengthen intelligence and surveillance to curb such activities.

Hydroponic weed is a high-grade form of cannabis cultivated without soil using a water-based nutrient solution. While the technique is used legally in some countries, it is often exploited for illegal drug production.

Meanwhile, in a separate operation near the Amritsar border, the BSF and NCB arrested two drug smugglers linked to a Pakistani narcotics network. Authorities recovered 506 grams of heroin, suspected to have been dropped by a drone. One smuggler was captured after a brief chase, while the second was tracked and arrested later. Both remain in police custody as investigations continue.