LUCKNOW, June 22 -- A UP Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) operation on Sunday uncovered what investigators suspect is a layered drug-trafficking network that used a Thailand supply link, local couriers and SUVs to move premium hydroponic cannabis into the domestic market. One of the arrested men allegedly told investigators that he entered the trade while still a student to fund his personal expenses, senior police officials said in a press note issued in Lucknow. Four alleged traffickers were arrested near Knowledge Park in Gautam Buddh Nagar, and 3.650 kg of OG/THC hydroponic cannabis buds-an expensive form of cannabis valued at around Rs.3.65 crore in the illegal market-was seized, according to the ANTF. The agency also recovered a Mahindra Thar, a Scorpio, Rs.4,00,500 in cash, four iPhones, an Android handset, and identity and banking documents. A case has been registered at Knowledge Park police station under sections 8, 20 and 60 of the NDPS Act. Investigators are now examining the racket's supply chain, financing trail and local distribution network, officials said. During interrogation, investigators said one of the accused, Pranay Pushp, claimed he began selling cannabis while studying to meet personal expenses. He allegedly came into contact with Yuvraj Chaudhary and Shashank Shahi, who, along with another associate, Rohan Chaudhary, were involved in procuring and distributing premium narcotic substances. According to the ANTF, the group's access to hydroponic cannabis may have been facilitated through a Thailand connection. Officers found that members of Shashank's family live in Thailand and that he travelled there frequently, a detail now being examined as a possible procurement route. Investigators suspect the contraband was sourced through foreign links, brought into the network through trusted handlers and distributed among local associates for onward sale. Investigators believe Pranay functioned as a downstream receiver and seller within the network. Officials said the probe is ongoing and more arrests are possible as investigators examine the network's foreign and domestic links....