In a significant blow to narcotics trafficking in Telangana, the Special Operations Team (SOT) of the Uppal Zone, in seamless coordination with the Kushaiguda Police, successfully intercepted a major shipment of hashish oil. The operation resulted in the seizure of 12 kg of the contraband, with an estimated street value of ₹1.5 crore, and the arrest of three suspected peddlers.

The operation was executed on September 7 following a precise intelligence tip-off. Police were informed that a consignment would be delivered near Road No. 5 in Nagarjuna Nagar Colony, Kushaiguda, between 3:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Officers established a discreet surveillance perimeter, and at approximately 4 p.m., they spotted three individuals carrying a distinct violet-coloured bag. The suspects were apprehended immediately before the hand-off could occur.

Upon inspection, the violet bag revealed eight packets containing a black, oily liquid with a pungent odor, later confirmed to be hashish oil. Along with the drugs, authorities seized three mobile phones, which are now being analyzed to map the broader network of the syndicate.

BozokMedia analysis shows that the use of non-traditional transport personnel—such as auto and taxi drivers—is a growing trend among drug cartels to evade suspicion during interstate transit. The route from the Narsipatnam-Chintapally region of Andhra Pradesh to the urban hubs of Hyderabad suggests a sophisticated supply chain designed to feed the city's growing demand for synthetic and concentrated narcotics.

"The shift from solid cannabis to concentrated hashish oil indicates a move toward higher potency and easier concealment, making detection significantly harder for highway patrols."

The arrested individuals have been identified as Bonangi Harichandra Prasad (30, an auto driver), Syed Raza Imam (49, a fast-food business owner), and Seerum Gangadhar (40, a taxi driver). Investigations reveal that the trio acted as couriers. Harichandra Prasad was allegedly instructed by his cousin, Mark (alias Rishi), and a coordinator named Vijay, to transport the goods to a recipient in the ECIL area.

Currently, the primary supplier Mark and the coordinator Vijay are absconding. Police have launched a manhunt across state borders to bring the masterminds to justice and uncover the final destination of the seized shipment.

Did You Know?: Hashish oil is a highly concentrated form of cannabis extract, significantly more potent than traditional resin or flower, and is often used in high-end illicit markets due to its compact size and strength.

Q1: Where was the hashish oil originating from?
The contraband was being transported from the Narsipatnam-Chintapally region of Andhra Pradesh.

Q2: Who are the main suspects still at large?
The alleged supplier Mark (alias Rishi) and the coordinator Vijay are currently absconding.