Kochi: In a major drug bust in Perumbavoor, police have seized hybrid cannabis worth an estimated Rs 18 crore and arrested a suspect identified as Ayush, a native of Vypin.

The seizure was carried out by the DanSAf team under the leadership of the Ernakulam Rural Superintendent of Police and is being described as one of the largest hybrid cannabis recoveries in recent times.

According to police, the DanSAf team received intelligence that Ayush was involved in smuggling hybrid cannabis. Acting on the tip-off, officers intercepted and searched the scooter he was travelling on in Perumbavoor.

During the search, police found 1.25 kilograms of hybrid cannabis concealed in plastic-wrapped packages inside the scooter.

Subsequent interrogation of the accused led investigators to a rented flat in Perumbavoor, where a further 16.75 kilograms of hybrid cannabis was recovered. In total, police seized 18 kilograms of the narcotic.

Investigators said Ayush had moved into the flat only six days earlier and had been staying there without submitting any identification documents. Police have also received information suggesting that he was using the premises to distribute drugs.

Speaking to the media, Range DIG Yathish Chandra said the seizure was likely only the beginning of a wider investigation.

“The hybrid cannabis seized would have a market value of around Rs 18 crore. This case is not limited to Ayush alone. Although 18 kilograms have been recovered, more consignments may already have reached Kerala. This is just the beginning, and the DanSAf team will continue its investigation,” he said.