Crime

In a joint operation conducted by revenue and police authorities, an illegal sand mining network operating in parts of Bapatla district was recently uncovered. Acting on public complaints, officials carried out surprise inspections in coastal and river-adjacent areas where unauthorized sand extraction was reportedly taking place during nighttime hours. During the raid, several tractors and transport vehicles allegedly involved in the illegal activity were seized. Authorities stated that the operators were extracting sand without proper permits and transporting it to nearby construction markets, causing environmental damage and loss of government revenue. Officials warned that illegal sand mining not only affects natural ecosystems but also increases the risk of erosion and flooding. Cases have been registered against the individuals involved, and further investigations are underway to identify the organizers behind the operation. The district administration has announced that regular monitoring will continue to prevent similar violations in the future.

Bapatla district police launched a major anti-drug operation that resulted in the arrest of sixteen individuals allegedly connected to the distribution of narcotic substances. During the operation, authorities seized approximately 2.8 kilograms of ganja and other incriminating materials. Officials stated that the investigation began after receiving intelligence inputs regarding illegal narcotics sales in several areas of the district. The crackdown forms part of a broader campaign aimed at reducing drug abuse and preventing narcotics from reaching students and young people. Police warned that strict action will continue against anyone involved in the transportation, sale, or consumption of illegal drugs. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted to educate the public about the dangers of substance abuse.

Police in Chirala successfully solved a shop robbery case after analyzing CCTV footage captured near the crime scene. The incident involved the theft of valuable merchandise from commercial establishments during nighttime hours. Investigators carefully reviewed surveillance footage and tracked the suspect’s movements before making an arrest. According to officials, the accused spent several hours planning the theft and targeting specific stores before carrying out the crime. The successful investigation highlights the growing role of surveillance technology in solving property-related crimes. Business owners have been encouraged to maintain functional CCTV systems and strengthen security measures to prevent future incidents.

Bapatla district police achieved a significant breakthrough by arresting a five-member dacoity gang allegedly involved in multiple robbery and theft cases. The accused were reportedly operating across state borders and targeting vulnerable locations for criminal activities. During the operation, police recovered approximately ₹6.72 lakh in cash along with weapons believed to have been used during criminal activities. Investigators are examining whether the gang has links to other unsolved robbery cases reported in Bapatla district and neighbouring regions. Officials praised the coordinated efforts of the investigation teams and reiterated their commitment to maintaining public safety through continuous surveillance and intelligence-based operations.

In a major crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Bapatla district police have detained a habitual ganja trafficker under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. The accused, a resident of Perala in Chirala mandal, was allegedly involved in multiple ganja transportation and distribution cases despite repeated arrests and warnings. According to police officials, five separate narcotics cases had previously been registered against the accused at Chirala I Town and Chirala II Town police stations. Investigations revealed that ganja was procured from tribal regions and sold in small quantities in and around Chirala. Authorities stated that the narcotics were being supplied to youth, labourers, and students. District police have intensified anti-drug operations and warned that strict legal action will continue against repeat offenders involved in narcotics trade.