Two MBA graduates arrested in Pune for an AI-optimized hydroponic marijuana grow and distribution network using dark web and crypto.
Two MBA graduates allegedly turned their rented Hinjewadi apartment into a high-tech hydroponic marijuana grow room using artificial intelligence and other advanced tools. The operation, which dealt in marijuana and nine other synthetic drugs, was busted after earlier arrests led police to them.
The case began when an engineering student, Tushar Chetan Verma (21), was arrested on Nov 28 for possession of hydroponic marijuana. Interrogation pointed investigators to Sumit Dedwal (25) and Akshay Meher (25), both MBA graduates from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar living in Hinjewadi. Police said the duo had set up a fully air-conditioned hydroponic marijuana production unit inside their rented flat.
Officials said the accused used cryptocurrencies, the dark web, and social media to source materials and distribute drugs — despite having no medical or pharmaceutical training. They reportedly sourced raw materials from Thailand, disguised as electronics, and paid vendors using crypto.
During the Pune police raid, officials seized OG-Kush marijuana plants, equipment, and saplings worth about ₹45 lakh from the flat. A subsequent raid on contacts in Mumbai uncovered additional marijuana, hashish, CBD oil, and other contraband valued at about ₹2.8 crore.
Two Mumbai associates — Malay Rajesh Deliwala (28) and Swaraj Bhosale (28) — were later arrested. Police said the accused used multiple fake addresses and delivery methods to conceal their network.
In total, the police seized drugs, equipment, and valuables worth roughly ₹3.45 crore and froze about 25 bank accounts and cryptocurrency wallets tied to the operation.
Reports are sourced from official documents, law-enforcement updates, and credible investigations.
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