Excise STF has unearthed a big racket in the old city of Hyderabad, Telangana, where accused Vikas Sharma was selling chocolates laced with ganja mixed with thandai. The operation took place in the area of Charminar Excise Station, from where 1,920 ganja containing chocolates (total 9.6 kg) were seized. The accused tried to push people into intoxication by selling normal Thandai at Rs 150 per glass instead of Rs 50. The investigation is still ongoing and further revelations are expected.
This matter came to light on Tuesday (February 17, 2026), when the Excise STF team conducted a raid based on information and Vikas Sharma was arrested. The team found that the accused was selling chocolates containing ganja mixed in thandai, due to which the customers did not realize that they were drinking the intoxicating beverage. This method was being used especially during festivals and summers to woo the common people. Seeing the quantity of chocolates seized, the officials said that it could be a big network, because such a huge consignment is not in the possession of one person alone.
Such action has been taken before also
Strict action has been going on against ganja and narcotics in Hyderabad for some time. Excise STF has conducted raids many times in the past in such cases, like stopping the sale of sweets and ice creams laced with ganja during Holi or seizing a huge consignment of ganja in Dhoolpet area. In recent months, STF has seized thousands of kilograms of ganja and arrested hundreds of people. In such rackets, ganja is often sold mixed with chocolates or sweets, which easily targets youth and children. Last year too, there were reports of ganja laced chocolates reaching children in some cases, which had increased concern in the society.
Supply chain is being traced in the investigation
This incident shows how dangerous and hidden the drug trade can be. Due to adulteration in things like Mango Thandai, people fall into intoxication without knowing, which has a bad effect on their health. The Excise Department team said that the associates and supply chain of the accused are being traced in the investigation. In such cases, there is a provision of strict punishment under the law and the department has promised that such rackets will be completely curbed.
