Visakhapatnam: The Alluri Sitaram Raju (ASR) district police have successfully destroyed cannabis plants growing across 15 acres of forest land in Jadiguda, Manbangi Panchayat, Pedabayalu mandal, on Sunday. The operation was carried out under the supervision of District Superintendent of Police Amit Bardar, with the collaborative efforts of the revenue, forest and police departments.
The illegal cultivation was identified using drone surveillance, and once confirmed, the crops were eradicated and burned on-site. Pedabayalu sub-inspector Ramana confirmed the operation and added that the Forest Department would be registering a case against those responsible for encroaching on protected forest land for illegal cannabis farming.
The police have warned of stringent legal action against individuals involved in cannabis cultivation and transportation, as they step up enforcement in the region.
