The Anti-Narcotics Cell (ANC) has arrested a 25-year-old man from Mapusa for alleged possession of hydroponic weed (ganja) valued at nearly ₹7.84 lakh, marking yet another significant drug bust in North Goa.
According to police reports, the accused, identified as Anirudh Ashok Bhogle, a resident of Vashi, Navi Mumbai, was apprehended during a raid conducted at a yard parking area in Mapusa. Officers recovered 224 grams of hydroponically cultivated cannabis, a high-grade variant known for its potency and market value.
Hydroponic weed is grown using nutrient-rich water instead of soil, often under controlled indoor conditions. Authorities believe that such cultivation methods are increasingly being used to produce stronger strains of cannabis, which are then trafficked across states.
The ANC team, acting on a tip-off, carried out the operation and seized the contraband. Bhogle was taken into custody and booked under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Police sources revealed that the accused had arrived in Goa recently and was allegedly involved in supplying high-quality weed to local networks. Investigators are now tracing his contacts and examining digital evidence to determine the extent of his operations.
The arrest has once again brought attention to the growing presence of synthetic and hydroponic drugs in Goa’s narcotics trade. Officials have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on such activities and urged citizens to report suspicious behavior.
“This is not just about recreational use — it’s about organized networks exploiting Goa’s tourism environment,” said a senior officer.
The seized substance has been sent for forensic analysis, and further investigation is underway to identify potential suppliers and buyers.
As the case unfolds, authorities are expected to tighten surveillance in urban areas like Mapusa, which have become hotspots for drug-related activity.
