Pune, 1st May 2026 : The anti-narcotics squad of Pune police seized a consignment of illegal Vimla gutkha worth ₹60 lakh at Khed Shivapur toll plaza while it was being transported into the city for sale. A truck valued at ₹20 lakh was also confiscated, taking the total seizure to ₹80.32 lakh.
The truck driver, identified as Srishel Halke (32) from Sangli, has been arrested. Police said the gutkha was being brought into Pune for distribution and sale in the local market.
During the investigation, it was revealed that two individuals from Pune had placed the order for the consignment. Police have launched a search operation to trace and arrest the suspects.
The action followed a tip-off received by police personnel during patrol duty in the Ambegaon area. Based on the information, a trap was initially set at Katraj Ghat, but the truck did not arrive as expected.
The team then extended the search towards Satara and successfully intercepted the vehicle at Khed Shivapur toll plaza with the help of Rajgad police. A case has been registered at Rajgad Police Station, and further investigation is underway.