Police hunt two ganja dealers after accomplice shot during violent escape attempts

Krishna district police have launched an intensified manhunt for two ganja peddlers who remain at large after their accomplice was shot and captured following twin attacks on law enforcement that left two constables injured.

The injured suspect, Akkidasari Avinad from Penamaluru village, is undergoing treatment at the Government General Hospital in Vijayawada after Circle Inspector B.B. Ravi Kumar opened fire during a capture attempt in Kankipadu mandal. The two absconding gang members are also natives of Krishna district, according to Gudivada Deputy Superintendent of Police P. Srinivas.

Critical condition constable

Armed Reserve police constable V. Venkateswara Rao's condition "continued to be critical," DSP Srinivas told The Hindu. The officer was allegedly stabbed by Avinad during the gang's first encounter with police on August 31, 2026, when East Godavari district police intercepted the three-member group transporting ganja on two bikes near Yernagudem under Devarapalli police station limits. All three suspects managed to escape that initial confrontation.

Second attack triggers shooting

Acting on a tip-off that Avinad was moving through Kankipadu mandal, police cordoned the area and attempted to apprehend him in the early hours of September 1, 2026. He allegedly attacked another constable, D. Srinivas, and pelted stones at a police vehicle before the Circle Inspector fired, injuring and capturing him.

Supplier network under scrutiny

The case has revealed gaps in police intelligence, Avinad had not been involved in any criminal case earlier and was not on the police radar, DSP Srinivas acknowledged. Investigators are now verifying the gang's suppliers and customers, the duration of their involvement in the illegal trade, procurement and transportation routes, and whether others assisted the operation, a police officer said. Police have seized Avinad's mobile phone and are examining his contacts.

"The East Godavari and the Krishna district police have intensified combing operations to nab the accused," DSP Srinivas said.

Source: The Hindu