Dharamshala, April 7
The Himachal Police have arrested a 52-year-old Shimla district resident late Monday after recovering 1.256 kilograms of charas and Rs 1 lakh in cash from his vehicle on the Mandi-Pathankot highway in Kangra district. Police officials reported that a Kandwal police post team was conducting routine vehicle checks when the driver of a black Hyundai Creta, approaching from Jassur, made an abrupt turn, raising suspicion. Officers promptly intercepted the vehicle.
During a search in the presence of independent witnesses, officers found 1.256 kg of charas hidden in a bag under the spare tyre in the car’s boot. The bag also contained Rs 1 lakh in cash, according to Kulbhushan Verma, Superintendent of Police, Nurpur.
The accused has been identified as Ram Kumar, 52, of Kumarsain, Shimla district. Police stated he operates a roadside dhaba in the Kullu-Manali area.
Police have seized the charas, cash, and vehicle, and registered a case against the accused under Sections 20 and 25 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
Police added that interrogation is ongoing to trace the source of the contraband and identify intended recipients.
This incident highlights the continued efforts of the Kangra police to curb drug smuggling on major regional highways.
