Possible interstate links to Goa, Maha being probed
BELAGAVI
The Belagavi Central Crime Branch (CCB) police have intensified their investigation into a suspected drug trafficking network with possible interstate links between Belagavi, Maharashtra and Goa after arresting three persons allegedly involved in the illegal sale of heroin in the city.
The CCB team have seized heroin valued at about Rs 9.5 lakh along with other valuables from the accused and registered a case at the Khade Bazar Police Station.
Police officials said they are now closely examining whether the arrested persons were part of a wider supply chain operating across neighbouring Goa and Karnataka.
Acting on a tip-off about heroin being sold in an open area behind a temple in the city, a CCB team led by Police Inspector Manjunath Nayak raided the suspected place. During the operation, police arrested three Belagavi residents — Nil Narayan Ballari, Kapil Gajanan Hosurkar, and Akash Anand Salunkhe. The officials recovered 47.29 grams of heroin valued at around Rs 9.50 lakh, besides a motorcycle, three mobile phones and cash. The total value of the seized property has been estimated at Rs 10,31,100.
During preliminary interrogation, the accused reportedly revealed that the narcotic substance was procured from a woman in Mumbai.
Police are now investigating the movement of the drug supply chain and possible connections with coastal routes, including Goa, which has often emerged as a transit point in narcotics-related cases due to its interstate connectivity.
Senior police officials said surveillance has been increased on suspected inter-state drug trafficking routes between Belagavi, Mumbai and Goa. Further investigation is underway to identify other persons involved in the network.
Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase and DCP Narayan Baramani appreciated the CCB team for the successful operation.
