In a major drug bust, police arrested a 22-year-old man from Guirim, identified as Leonardo, for allegedly possessing high-grade hydroponic weed valued at approximately Rs 18 lakh. The arrest was made during a late-night raid on Sunday near the rear side of the New KTC bus stand in Mapusa.
Acting on a tip-off, police intercepted Leonardo and found him in possession of 180 grams of suspected hydroponic ganja, along with Rs 200 in cash. The operation was carried out under the supervision of PSI Mangesh Palni.
An offence has been registered against the accused under Section 20(b)(ii)(A) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Further investigations are underway to trace the source and possible network linked to the seized drugs.
Hydroponic weed, a potent form of cannabis cultivated using nutrient-rich water instead of soil, has seen a rise in illegal circulation in Goa, prompting heightened vigilance by the state’s narcotics authorities.