Noida, Nov 12 (PTI) – A man from Greater Noida was arrested on Tuesday after authorities uncovered an illegal cannabis cultivation operation inside his apartment in a housing society. The accused, identified as Rahul Chaudhary, was growing cannabis plants in his flat on the 10th floor of Parsvnath Panorama, a residential building in Greater Noida.
Chaudhary, a native of Meerut and an English graduate, had been cultivating cannabis for about six months, using a sophisticated setup in his apartment. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Saad Miya Khan, a total of 80 ganja plants were found, along with over 2 kg of cannabis. In addition, authorities seized approximately 163.4 grams of high-grade ‘OG’ cannabis during the raid.
Cannabis Cultivation Inspired by Crime Dramas
The police reported that Chaudhary had been inspired to start cultivating the illegal substance by web series and crime dramas, which portrayed the underground world of drug production and trafficking. The DCP added that the cultivation setup was well-organized and concealed within the apartment.
Arrest and Seizure Details
Chaudhary was apprehended near the P-3 roundabout in the Beta-2 area by officials from the Beta-2 police station, Ecotech-1 police station, and the district’s Anti-Narcotics Team. Following the arrest, a raid was conducted at his residence, Flat No. 1001, Tower 5, where the cannabis plants and drugs were found and seized.
This operation highlights the increasing vigilance of local law enforcement in tackling drug-related offenses in residential areas, especially within communities that may not expect such illicit activities to occur.
Legal Implications
Chaudhary now faces charges related to the illegal cultivation, possession, and distribution of cannabis, which is prohibited under Indian law. The authorities are continuing their investigation into whether he had been distributing the drugs or planning to do so.