Archive · 4 Sep 2026
ED Raids Neetu Bai Properties in Multi-State Ganja Probe
The Enforcement Directorate searched homes and other properties linked to Neetu Bai.
Officials suspect she helped run a large cannabis-selling network.
They are investigating whether money from alleged drug sales was hidden or used to buy property.
The searches took place in several southern Indian states.
Different reports gave different numbers for the locations searched.
Investigators say many sellers and suppliers worked with her.
They also say some customers were wealthy people and information-technology workers.
Neetu Bai has faced several narcotics cases and is currently described as absconding.
Authorities are checking bank accounts, property papers and other records to understand where the money came from.
The Enforcement Directorate conducted searches linked to Neetu Bai in a money-laundering investigation involving alleged cannabis trafficking.
Reports differ on the scale of the operation, citing either eight locations or 30 premises across Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala.
Investigators allege that Neetu Bai ran a family-assisted bulk cannabis network connected to more than 300 peddlers and suppliers.
Authorities suspect that drug-sale proceeds were invested in real estate and deposited into bank accounts held by relatives.
Neetu Bai, who has multiple narcotics cases, is absconding; officials say her assets and financial records are being examined under anti-money-laundering laws.
- Who
- The Enforcement Directorate, Telangana’s Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement, and Neetu Bai, also known as Kalapathi Nithu Bai and the “Ganja Queen.”
- What
- The ED conducted coordinated searches of properties linked to Neetu Bai and relatives as part of a money-laundering probe tied to alleged cannabis trafficking.
- When
- The searches took place on Thursday; the reports also refer to a June 2026 arrest-avoidance operation and a previous arrest in August 2023.
- Where
- Searches were reported in Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, including Nanakramguda, Dhoolpet, Banjara Hills, Narsingi, Kokapet, Serilingampally, LB Nagar and Attapur.
- Why
- Investigators are tracing alleged proceeds of crime, property purchases and bank deposits connected to bulk cannabis sales.
- Search coverage
- One report said eight locations were searched, while another said 30 premises across four southern states were covered.
- Legal basis
- The ED investigation was registered under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act.
- Source cases
- The financial probe stems from criminal cases registered by Telangana’s Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement.
- Alleged network
- Police and investigators describe a family-assisted operation involving more than 300 peddlers and suppliers.
- Suspected proceeds
- One report said authorities suspect Neetu Bai amassed more than Rs 150 crore through alleged narcotics sales.
- Previously reported finances
- Another report cited a bank balance exceeding Rs 180 crore and immovable properties valued at more than Rs 4.80 crore.
- Current status
- Authorities describe Neetu Bai as absconding and say a manhunt is underway.
- Earlier legal action
- She was arrested in August 2023 and later released on bail; her Nanakramguda property was reportedly seized under SAFEMA on July 18.
