On July 10, 2026, a coordinated anti‑drugs raid in Vijayawada saw the Elite Anti‑Narcotics Group (EAGLE) team up with the Government Railway Police (GRP) to seize a massive 31.5 kg of ganja from the Ratnachal Express and detain three primary suspects. The operation underscores a renewed focus on curbing drug trafficking via India’s railway corridors, especially in the high‑traffic state of Andhra Pradesh.

Operation Background

EAGLE, a specialised unit under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has increasingly targeted railway routes after intelligence agencies flagged a surge in narcotics movement across state lines. A local tip‑off alerted authorities that a group of passengers aboard the Ratnachal Express was planning to transport cannabis in small cartons. GRP Circle Inspector J. V. Ramana confirmed that the train was stopped at Vijayawada station, where officers conducted a thorough inspection of the suspect compartments.

Arrests and Seized Contraband

The three adults taken into custody are identified as D. Raju of V. Sarabavaram village (Anakapalli district, AP), Jokim Balasavari Dsouza of Suryanagar village (Maharashtra), and K. Dhanaraju of Joharapuram village (Kurnool district, AP). A juvenile accomplice was also apprehended. According to police, Raju sourced the ganja from tribal residents of Janathabai village in Odisha, moved it to Annavaram in Kakinada district, and then handed it over for onward transport to Bengaluru.

Economic and Social Impact

The contraband, valued at roughly ₹65,000, highlights the lucrative nature of intra‑state drug networks that exploit the extensive railway system. Such operations not only fuel addiction among youth but also erode public confidence in safety standards on public transport. The seizure represents a tangible financial loss for the syndicate and a warning signal to other would‑be traffickers.

Future Enforcement Strategy

Both EAGLE and GRP officials emphasized that this successful raid will be followed by sustained vigilance. Plans include deploying dedicated inspection teams at key junctions, enhancing real‑time intelligence sharing, and conducting surprise checks on long‑distance trains. Strengthening railway security is deemed essential to dismantle the logistical backbone of drug smuggling and to protect commuters across the nation.