Navi Mumbai Police Bust International Hydro Ganja Racket; 10, Including Cops and Customs Official, Arrested

Navi Mumbai, April 29: In a major breakthrough, Navi Mumbai Police have uncovered an international drug trafficking operation involving hydroponically grown cannabis, commonly known as hydro ganja. A total of ten individuals have been arrested, including two police personnel and a customs department official, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.

Acting on a confidential tip-off, the Anti-Narcotics Cell raided a terrace apartment in Nerul on April 14. Two suspects, identified as Ashish Gaware and Ahmed Khaled Alangi, were caught red-handed attempting a drug deal. The police seized 17.99 grams of hydro ganja, valued at ₹2.76 lakh, during the raid.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Amit Kale revealed that the narcotics were smuggled into India via air routes from Thailand. The investigation led to the arrest of Sujit Bangera, a former national hockey player, and Sahil Lambe, who are believed to be central to the drug import operation. The duo allegedly relied on Prashant Gour, a superintendent with the customs department, to facilitate the clearance of contraband at the airport’s foreign post office.

The crackdown also exposed the involvement of police havaldar Sachin Bhalerao from Kharghar and naik Sanjay Phulkar, who were reportedly in close contact with the accused.

Further investigations revealed that the proceeds from drug sales were funneled through hawala channels managed by angadias Ankit Pitambarbhai Patel and Rinkunkumar Dineshbhai Patel. The funds were later converted into cryptocurrency to obscure the financial trail.

The key mastermind, Kamal Jaikisan Chandwani, responsible for orchestrating the clearance and distribution of the drugs, has also been arrested.

The police have seized hydro ganja and other narcotics worth ₹16.43 lakh. Additionally, four luxury cars, cash worth ₹14.12 lakh, and paraphernalia valued at ₹1.38 lakh were recovered from the accused.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been established to delve deeper into the network and uncover potential international links within the smuggling syndicate.

“We are committed to dismantling the entire operation and bringing all involved to justice,” DCP Kale affirmed.