Hyderabad police seize Chinese Manja worth Rs 1.24 crore, arrest 143 persons

January 8, 2026

Hyderabad: Intensifying their crackdown against banned Chinese Manja, Hyderabad Police seized a large quantity worth ₹1.24 crore and arrested 143 people. Ahead of the Sankranti festival, authorities intensified their crackdown to curb the sale, storage, and transportation of banned Chinese Manja (synthetic/nylon kite string) in the city.

Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar said that as part of the operation, police registered 103 cases and arrested 143 individuals. A total of 6,226 Manja bobbins were seized, with an estimated market value of ₹1,24,52,000.

Safety Warning Before Sankranti

Sajjanar said, “Sankranti is a festival of joy and kite flying, but the celebrations should not be life-threatening.” He reiterated that the government has imposed a complete ban on Chinese manja, as it poses a serious threat to humans, birds, and the environment.

He warned, “Immediate criminal action will be taken against anyone selling, storing, or transporting Chinese manja. Special teams have been deployed across the city.”

Monitoring Online Sales

The Police Commissioner also reported that some traders have shifted to online platforms to avoid action. “We have started 24-hour monitoring on e-commerce platforms and social media. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved in the online sale or purchase of Chinese manja,” he said.

Danger to People and Animals

Sajjanar warned parents that the metallic coating of Chinese manja can cause serious injuries and even electric shock, especially to children. He described Chinese manja as a “silent killer,” saying it has caused serious injuries and deaths to pedestrians, two-wheeler riders, birds, and animals.

Just last week, four motorcyclists, including a constable and a student, were injured by Chinese manja, and they suffered serious neck injuries. Hyderabad police have formed special teams to prevent the illegal manufacture, storage, transportation, and sale of banned manja.