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Contraband in a Wrapper: Mangaluru Catches Candy-Coated Cannabis Dealers
date 22-June
MANGALURU – What looks innocent can sometimes carry a secret. This week, Mangaluru officials discovered just that when they cracked down on a bizarre and unsettling trend — cannabis-laced chocolates being sold from local petty shops. And no, this isn't an April Fool’s prank.
Bechan Sonkar, a 45-year-old man originally from Mau, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested by Mangaluru South police on Wednesday after being found in possession of 303 grams of chocolates allegedly infused with bhang — a traditional cannabis preparation. What’s more, the candies weren’t exactly subtle. With flashy names like ‘Mahashakti Munka’, ‘Bam Bam Munka Vati’, and even ‘Power Munka Vati’, they almost sounded like something from a mystical ayurvedic comic book.
In truth, they were a recipe for trouble.
The chocolates were being sold with code names like “Charminar” and “Bum Bum,” according to excise officials, which ironically evoke images of nostalgic candy brands rather than narcotic-laced treats. “We were shocked at the casual way this was being distributed — like it was just regular toffee,” said an officer involved in the raid.
And it doesn’t stop there.
In a parallel raid just a few miles north, another man — Manohar Shet, 49 — was caught red-handed during a surprise inspection at a Car Street store. Officials seized bhang worth a staggering ₹48,000 from his premises.
While bhang has deep cultural roots in India, especially around Holi and Shivratri, its recreational distribution, particularly disguised as children's snacks, is not only illegal — it’s deeply dangerous.
Commissioner Kuldeep Kumar R Jain revealed that Wednesday’s coordinated sweep spanned 145 local shops. Of these, 16 were also found selling tobacco products without proper authorization. “The presence of narcotics hidden inside familiar wrappings is an emerging threat,” Jain warned. “We’re increasing surprise checks across the city.”
That said, one can’t help but wonder how many such products have already made their way into unsuspecting hands. Could these candies be part of a larger network? Or were they one-off sales meant to test the waters?
Locals are divided.
“This is what happens when we ignore small-time vendors. Everyone’s focused on big dealers — meanwhile, these guys sell drugs under your nose,” said Sunitha Rao, a schoolteacher who shops regularly in the area.
However, not all are ready to believe it’s part of something larger. “Maybe it’s just one guy trying to make a quick buck,” posted @peacefulMinds on a local forum. “Doesn’t mean there’s a cartel of chocolate-pushers out here.”
Still, the incident has raised eyebrows, and rightly so.
🧐 FAQs
Q1: Is bhang illegal in India?
A: Bhang, made from cannabis leaves, is legal in some states during festivals, but unauthorized sale — especially when mixed into products like food or candy — is considered illegal under the NDPS Act.
Q2: What precautions should buyers take?
A: Always buy packaged items from licensed vendors. Avoid unfamiliar brands, especially those with exaggerated or suspicious names. Report any suspicious packaging to local authorities.