Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Apr 15: In a record-breaking crackdown on drug trafficking, the Goa Police have seized 4.32 kg of high-grade cocaine worth a staggering Rs 43.20 cr marking the biggest drug haul in the state's history. The consignment, cleverly concealed in chocolate and coffee packets, was intercepted during a delivery attempt on Monday.
Superintendent of Police (Crime), Rahul Gupta, described the seizure as a ‘very important and massive drug bust,’ crediting the success to a joint operation involving the Crime Branch, Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC), and District Police.
“Based on credible intelligence, we intercepted individuals attempting to deliver the consignment. Upon inspection, we discovered packets containing a white powder hidden inside chocolate and coffee packaging. Preliminary field tests confirmed it was cocaine,” Gupta said.
Three people have been arrested in connection with the case Nebu Vincent, Reshma Wadekar, and her husband, Mangesh Wadekar. According to police, Reshma is suspected of sourcing the drugs, while Vincent and Mangesh were allegedly involved in distributing them.
In total, 32 packets were recovered: 14 pink, 14 green, and 4 labelled as coffee. The packaging, described by Gupta as ‘sophisticated and carefully designed,’ points to the possibility of an international drug network.
“Reshma had travelled abroad recently, and we are probing whether the drugs were smuggled into India through those links,” the SP added.
Initial background checks revealed a murky past for the Wadekar couple. Reshma had previously been arrested in a prostitution case, while Mangesh has a rape case pending against him. Vincent, on the other hand, appears to have no prior criminal record and is believed to have acted as a courier.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant lauded the Goa Police for the breakthrough. “This seizure reflects our government’s unwavering commitment, sharp vigilance, and the professional excellence of our police force in tackling narcotics,” he said.
This development comes just weeks after the Crime Branch busted a hydroponic weed racket worth Rs 11.67 cr, which was then the largest drug seizure in the state. Monday’s operation has now set a new benchmark.
Police have also indicated that a search operation is being planned at the Wadekar residence. While there is no immediate evidence linking the couple’s two sons to the crime, officials have not ruled out further investigations.
The case continues to unfold, with authorities now widening their probe into possible international connections and the larger supply chain behind the smuggling network.