“Drug-Addicted Rats?” CAG Flags 2.3 Tonnes of Seized Narcotics Missing in Gujarat

Gandhinagar | Gujarat — A shocking revelation in the latest report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) has triggered outrage and disbelief in Gujarat, after auditors found that more than 2.3 tonnes of seized drugs vanished from police custody over the past 12 years. In an explanation that has stunned observers, police officers claimed a major portion of the missing narcotics were eaten by rats, while some were allegedly stolen by thieves.

The report for the financial year 2024-25, tabled in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly on March 25, paints a troubling picture of accountability in drug seizure and storage systems. The findings come even as the state government repeatedly highlights a “zero-tolerance” approach against narcotics.

2,332 kg drugs unaccounted for

According to the audit, agencies including the CID Crime and SOG of the Gujarat Police seized 6,510.54 kg of drugs and 848 bottles between August 2010 and November 2022. However, records show that the quantity disposed of between October 2022 and July 2023 was 4,177.86 kg, leaving a staggering difference of 2,332.68 kg — nearly 35% of the total seized stock.

When questioned by the Home Department, the CID Crime wing reported that 144.18 kg of ganja had been stolen, while the remaining loss was attributed to rats and moisture absorption. The explanation has raised serious concerns among auditors and policymakers alike.

The CAG observed that while some reduction in weight could occur due to storage conditions, such a massive discrepancy demands deeper scrutiny and reconsideration.

“Rats ate the drugs” explanation sparks debate

The report’s findings have led to sharp criticism from governance experts and former officials. “This is not just a case of poor storage. This points to systemic failure and weak accountability,” a senior policy analyst said, adding that narcotics seized from smugglers should be handled under strict security and scientific storage protocols.

The audit also revealed troubling storage conditions. Police reportedly informed auditors that seized narcotics were kept in a room with open access and poor maintenance, raising the possibility of pilferage and contamination.

Wider fiscal concerns raised

The revelations form part of a broader audit that also flagged Gujarat’s rising debt of ₹3.80 lakh crore and irregularities in welfare schemes. The report noted rising expenditure on salaries, pensions, subsidies and loan interest, along with pending utilisation certificates worth over ₹7,400 crore.

Questions over accountability

The findings have sparked serious questions about how seized narcotics — often linked to major trafficking networks — could disappear in such large quantities. Experts warn that the issue goes beyond embarrassment and touches on public safety and trust.