UP Police Bust Drug Mafia Using Army Truck Cover: 1.25 Tons of Marijuana Worth ₹3 Crore Seized in Mau

In a dramatic crackdown that stunned residents, police in Mau district, Uttar Pradesh, have busted a major drug trafficking ring using a truck disguised as an Indian Army vehicle. The Special Task Force (STF) and Mau Kotwali police jointly intercepted the truck, discovering a staggering 1.25 tons (12.5 quintals) of marijuana hidden beneath household goods.

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Army On Duty: A Clever Cover

The operation unfolded near Talimuddin Inter College in Mau, where the police, acting on a tip-off, stopped a truck boldly marked “Army On Duty.” At first glance, the vehicle appeared to be an official military transport, complete with a placard bearing the name of an army officer. The traffickers hoped this disguise would allow them to evade routine police checks and avoid suspicion.

However, a thorough search revealed the real cargo: a massive consignment of marijuana, cleverly concealed under piles of household items. The seized drugs have an estimated street value of over ₹3 crore (approximately $360,000).

From Assam to Lucknow: The Trafficking Route

During interrogation, Janardan Pandey, a resident of Gangapur Bhuliya in Sultanpur district, was arrested at the scene. He confessed that the marijuana had been loaded from the Albara region of Assam and was destined for Lucknow. The mastermind behind the operation, identified as Chhotu from Sukhpura in Ballia district, allegedly offered Pandey ₹70,000 per trip to transport the contraband.

To further avoid detection, the traffickers had stacked domestic items on top of the marijuana, creating the illusion of a legitimate household move often associated with army transfers.

Police Expand Investigation

According to media reports, three more suspects are involved in the operation, and police are actively searching for them. The STF and Mau police are now investigating the wider network, seeking to uncover all individuals linked to this elaborate smuggling ring.

Mau’s Superintendent of Police addressed the media, confirming the details of the bust and highlighting the innovative tactics used by the criminals. He noted that using army markings and fake documentation is a new trend among traffickers attempting to bypass law enforcement.

Major Victory Against the Drug Trade

Authorities have hailed this joint operation as a significant victory in the fight against narcotics in Uttar Pradesh. The case has also raised concerns about the increasing sophistication of drug traffickers and the need for constant vigilance by law enforcement agencies.

As the investigation continues, police are determined to dismantle the entire network and bring all those involved to justice.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.