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In a bizarre turn of events that has stunned both the judiciary and the public, Jharkhand Police have claimed that nearly 200 kilograms of seized marijuana were destroyed by rats while in official custody, raising serious questions about evidence handling and accountability within the system.
The unusual explanation surfaced during a court hearing when police officials informed the judge that the massive quantity of narcotics, confiscated during anti-drug operations, was no longer available as it had allegedly been eaten by rodents. The claim reportedly left the court visibly shocked, with judges expressing disbelief over how such a large volume of seized contraband could vanish under police supervision.
According to officials, the marijuana was stored in a police warehouse or evidence room that was not adequately protected against pests. Over time, rats allegedly gnawed through the packaging and destroyed the entire stock. The explanation has triggered widespread criticism, with legal experts questioning the plausibility of rodents consuming such an enormous quantity without earlier detection.
This incident has reignited concerns over evidence storage practices in law enforcement agencies, particularly in narcotics cases where seized drugs are crucial for prosecution. Courts rely heavily on physical evidence, and its disappearance can severely weaken cases against accused traffickers, potentially allowing offenders to walk free.
The judiciary has reportedly sought detailed reports from the police, asking for clarity on how evidence worth crores could be lost due to what officials describe as “negligence caused by rodents.” The court is also believed to be considering strict action and demanding accountability from officers responsible for safeguarding the seized material.
Legal observers say the case highlights systemic flaws in evidence management, including poor infrastructure, lack of surveillance, and absence of standard operating procedures for storing high-risk contraband. Similar incidents in the past, where drugs were said to be damaged by moisture, fire, or pests, have already dented public trust in enforcement agencies.
The shocking explanation has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many users questioning whether the “rats” story is a convenient excuse to cover up mishandling or possible pilferage. Calls for transparent audits, CCTV-monitored storage facilities, and time-bound disposal of seized narcotics have grown louder following the incident.
As the court continues to examine the matter, the episode serves as a grim reminder of how lapses in custodial responsibility can undermine the fight against drug trafficking. Whether the police explanation will stand judicial scrutiny remains to be seen, but the case has already become one of the most talked-about and controversial law enforcement stories of the year.
