Pune Rural Police Bust Opium Production In Purandar Amidst Rise in Drug Cases, Police Arrest Cultivators 

In response to the increasing cases of mephedrone-related issues in Pune, the Pune rural police carried out a crackdown on illegal activities, leading to the arrest of opium growers operating without a proper license. ” The suspects, Kiran Kundlik Jagtap (40) and Rohidas Changdev Jagtap (55), residents of Kodit, Purandar, were apprehended during the operation.”

Valued at Rs 76,560 and weighing a total of 35.28 kg, various items were seized from the arrested individuals. The Superintendent of Police for Pune Rural District, Pankaj Deshmukh, emphasized the need to tackle the societal challenge posed by narcotic drugs. ”  He issued directives to take strict action against those unlawfully involved in the cultivation and production of drugs like opium and cannabis under the guise of agricultural activities.

Acting on information from a confidential informant, the Jejuri police station team discovered unauthorized opium cultivation in the fields of Mauje Mawadi, Purandar. The accused individuals had attempted to conceal their illegal activities by interspersing opium plants with onion and garlic crops.  “A total of 38.28 kg of opium plants and seeds worth Rs 76,560 were seized during the operation.”

The arrested individuals are now ” facing legal consequences as a case has been filed against them at Jejuri Police Station.”  Notably, another operation in Kodit Budruk Taluka, Purandar, led to the local crime branch taking action against two individuals engaged in illegal opium cultivation. 

Superintendent of Police Deshmukh warned of stringent measures against those cultivating opium or cannabis without proper authorization. The police remain committed to curbing the rise of illicit drug activities in the region.