Hyderabad cops seize drugs worth Rs 26 Cr in 2 months

Hyderabad: The Telangana State Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TSNAB) has recovered narcotics worth Rs 26 crores in the last two months, the majority of which was Ganja (marijuana). MDMA was a close second. In the same period, the bureau arrested 353 individuals in drug-related cases.

The TSNAB is unwavering in its commitment to the government’s vision of a drug-free society and has intensified its efforts in drug enforcement, coordination, awareness campaigns, and operational strategies.

Tackling technological developments

The global landscape of drug trafficking is constantly evolving, driven by rapid technological advancements and innovations in retail distribution. Traffickers have adapted by leveraging every available tool at their disposal. In this challenging environment, TSNAB, in collaboration with state police, has achieved commendable results through relentless anti-narcotics operations.

Case numbers in June and July

The statistics for June and July underscore the agency’s enforcement prowess. TSNAB registered a total of 196 cases during this period. Of these, an overwhelming majority — 175 cases — were related to the seizure of Ganja.

These operations led to the apprehension of 353 individuals involved in drug-related activities. In addition, 46 persons were arrested in connection with 21 other narcotics cases. The potential street value of the seized drugs stands at an astounding Rs 26,01,34,650 (more than Rs 26 crores) revealing the magnitude of the drug trafficking issue that TSNAB is tackling.

Educating vulnerable populations

TSNAB’s commitment extends beyond enforcement. In June, the bureau organised a three-day state-wide awareness campaign, aptly named ‘Mission Parivartana.’ This initiative aimed to engage and educate the youth, leaving a lasting impact through engagement and dialogue. The campaign featured a diverse range of activities, including panel discussions, impactful graffiti murals, competitions, and awareness programs conducted across the state. The bureau’s awareness wing continues its tireless efforts to reach out to vulnerable populations through various platforms.

Cooperation sought among narcotics, police departments

Recognising the multidimensional nature of the drug issue, a state-level meeting was convened on July 5. During this meeting, the chief secretary and the director of TSNAB, who serves as the member convener of the state Narcotics Control Bureau (NCORD), emphasised the necessity of cross-departmental synergy in crafting a comprehensive strategy. This collaborative approach harnesses the collective efforts of various government departments in the fight against drug trafficking.

Solutions to drug-related offences updated

A significant milestone was marked with the inaugural full-scale review meeting chaired by director CV Anand.

During this meeting, Anand elucidated TSNAB’s mission, vision, and motto to new officers. The discussion covered achievements in narcotics control over the past two years, underlining the government’s unwavering resolve to eradicate drug-related issues. The extensive review encompassed diverse facets, including technology procurement, operational oversight, tracking mechanisms, procedural improvements, monitoring precursor intermediary chemicals, ensuring case resolutions culminating in convictions, conducting rigorous financial investigations, confiscating ill-gotten properties under NDPS and SAFEMA acts, re-routing narcotics-related Dial-100 calls to TSNAB, and strengthening Anti-Drug Committees (ADCs).

A collective commitment

In conclusion, CV Anand concluded the meeting with a compelling message, reminding all present of the personal commitment required to combat drug abuse. He kindled a collective sense of responsibility, emphasising that our own children may be vulnerable to the influence of drugs, potentially causing untold misery to families.

TSNAB’s data-driven approach, combined with its unwavering determination and collaborative efforts, positions it at the forefront of Telangana’s mission for a drug-free society, setting an example for others to follow.