Andhra Pradesh Police Seize 128kg Ganja and MDMA in 'Operation Vajraprahar' on March 7

Andhra Pradesh police seized 128kg of ganja and MDMA in a major crackdown. This is a significant amount, showing a strong effort to stop drug trafficking in the state.
By Newsroom | Law Enforcement, Andhra Pradesh |

Andhra Pradesh police, in a sweeping statewide operation designated 'Operation Vajraprahar', have intensified efforts against drug trafficking and cultivation. The multi-district initiative, involving nearly 4,800 police personnel and anti-narcotics wing EAGLE staff, reportedly focused on 94 sensitive locations across 88 police subdivisions. Key seizures during the coordinated raids included significant quantities of cannabis seeds and plants, along with MDMA. The operation also yielded arrests of individuals linked to distribution networks and the apprehension of eight absconding accused from older cases.

Mega Anti-Drug Drive Under ‘Operation Vajraprahar’ in Nellore, Prakasam Districts - 1

Intensified Enforcement and Seizures

The crackdown, spearheaded by directions from Director General of Police Harish Kumar Gupta and supervised by EAGLE Chief A.K. Ravi Krishna, saw police personnel conducting searches and inspections across various districts. Specific incidents highlighted include:

Mega Anti-Drug Drive Under ‘Operation Vajraprahar’ in Nellore, Prakasam Districts - 2

  • In the SPSR Nellore district, operations led by SP Dr Ajitha Vejendla involved checking 1,320 individuals and 360 vehicles. 109 vehicles were seized in connection with various offenses, including 25 motorcycles in Ongole and 40 in Medarametla for lacking proper documentation and visible number plates.

  • The Government Railway Police at Gudur Railway Station in Nellore district intercepted the Rameswaram Special Train, seizing a total of 28 kilograms of ganja across two separate reports.

  • Searches in the ASR district resulted in the seizure of 10 kilograms of ganja seeds near Paderu, while another report indicates 110 kg of cannabis seeds were seized in Paderu and a cannabis plant destroyed in Nuzvid. A ganja plant was also recovered in Eluru district.

  • In Vijayawada, authorities apprehended four individuals and seized 19.7 grams of MDMA, along with four mobile phones. Another suspect, reportedly from Bengaluru, remains at large.

  • During a cordon and search operation near the Pandit Nehru Bus Station in Vijayawada, police arrested Kanakam Murali Patel, 23, who allegedly brandished a country-made firearm and pepper spray in an attempt to evade capture. A revolver and bullets were seized.

Broader Aims and Community Engagement

Beyond direct enforcement, the operation incorporated community outreach and awareness components. Police reportedly counselled 'rowdy-sheeters' and other suspects, emphasizing the detrimental effects of drug abuse. Awareness campaigns and pledge ceremonies against drug consumption were conducted in areas such as Madanapalle, Angallu, and Rayachoti towns of Annamayya district. Drones were deployed for surveillance, and a toll-free hotline was established to encourage public cooperation in identifying trafficking networks. In Anakapalli, Superintendent of Police Tuhin Sinha intensified measures with a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) aimed at transforming the region into a "drug-free district."

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Mega Anti-Drug Drive Under ‘Operation Vajraprahar’ in Nellore, Prakasam Districts - 3

Operation Vajraprahar also involved the use of the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act. Nine habitual offenders have been detained under this act and lodged in Kadapa jail. Authorities seized illegal weapons, liquor, and contraband items in addition to narcotics. In SPS Nellore district specifically, 69 NDPS cases were registered, leading to 65 arrests.

Mega Anti-Drug Drive Under ‘Operation Vajraprahar’ in Nellore, Prakasam Districts - 4

Context and Scope

The operation, which unfolded around March 7, 2026, reflects a concerted, state-level push against the narcotics trade. EAGLE IGP Ravi Krishna underscored the societal threat posed by illegal drug trafficking and marijuana cultivation. The scope of the operation extended to various towns and subdivisions, indicating a comprehensive approach to addressing the issue across the state.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What did Andhra Pradesh police find during 'Operation Vajraprahar' on March 7, 2026?
During 'Operation Vajraprahar' on March 7, 2026, police seized large amounts of drugs, including 128 kilograms of cannabis seeds and plants, and 19.7 grams of MDMA. They also arrested individuals involved in drug distribution and nine habitual offenders under the PIT NDPS Act.
Q: How many police officers and staff were involved in 'Operation Vajraprahar' in Andhra Pradesh?
Around 4,800 police officers and staff from the anti-narcotics wing EAGLE were involved in the statewide 'Operation Vajraprahar'. They focused on 94 sensitive locations across 88 police subdivisions.
Q: What specific drug amounts were seized in different districts during the operation?
In Nellore district, 28 kilograms of ganja were seized. In the ASR district, 10 kilograms of ganja seeds were found, and 110 kg of cannabis seeds were seized in Paderu. In Vijayawada, 19.7 grams of MDMA were confiscated.
Q: Were any weapons or other illegal items seized during 'Operation Vajraprahar'?
Yes, besides drugs, police also seized illegal weapons, including a country-made firearm and a revolver with bullets, as well as liquor and other contraband items. Vehicles were also seized for various offenses.
Q: What actions were taken against habitual offenders during the operation?
Nine habitual offenders were detained under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT NDPS) Act and sent to Kadapa jail. This shows a strict approach to repeat offenders.
Q: How did 'Operation Vajraprahar' aim to involve the community in fighting drugs?
The operation included awareness campaigns and pledge ceremonies against drug use in towns like Madanapalle. Police also used drones for surveillance and set up a toll-free hotline to encourage public tips about drug networks.