New Hyderabad CP Sajjanar vows war on drugs, online scams, drunk driving

Hyderabad: Newly-appointed Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar has pledged to wage an all-out battle against drugs, cybercrime and traffic violations, terming them the city’s biggest challenges.

Speaking to the media after assuming charge at his chamber here on Tuesday, he said people’s safety and welfare would remain the police department’s top priority.

Stopping drugs is a priority

Calling Hyderabad a ‘fast-growing city facing a serious drug menace,’ Sajjanar said an iron-fisted approach will be adopted against drug suppliers and rowdy sheeters.

He said that past cases will be reviewed, a comprehensive offender database created and the EAGLE (Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement) will be strengthened. “The Telangana government is equally serious. For Hyderabad Police, fighting drugs is the top priority,” he said.

Tackling cybercrime

Sajjanar warned citizens against online betting apps, stock market frauds, digital arrest scams and fake medicine rackets, which are increasingly targeting the elderly.

“Money never comes free. People must stay vigilant against cyber fraud,” he cautioned. Awareness campaigns, stronger monitoring and coordination with other states will be stepped up.

Betting apps have been banned and public awareness has increased. No one should promote online betting or harmful apps, especially celebrities and social media influencers, he said.

Action against adulterated food

Counterfeit food was identified as another pressing threat. Sajjanar announced the creation of a dedicated task force and a market intelligence network to act against food adulteration gangs.

Traffic and drunken driving

With lakhs of new vehicles hitting city roads annually, the Commissioner said traffic management would be addressed with long-term goals.

He promised stricter checks against drunken driving, calling offenders ‘road terrorists’ and ‘suicide bombers.’ Use of AI technology and drones is also under consideration for traffic enforcement and grievance redressal.

Protection of women and children

Reiterating a zero-tolerance stance, Sajjanar said crimes against women and children would be dealt with sternly. “Before harassing women, offenders should remember their own mothers and sisters,” he remarked.

Strengthening policing

The Commissioner highlighted plans to improve Dial 100, expand CCTV coverage across buildings, and adopt a ‘People’s Welfare Policing’ approach.

Welfare of police personnel would also be prioritised, with recognition and rewards for meritorious officers. He urged citizens to cooperate with police, stressing that ‘every citizen is a police officer.’

Phone tapping and civil matters

On the phone tapping controversy, Sajjanar said a review would be undertaken before deciding future action. He also warned that policemen indulging in illegal activities under the cover of civil disputes would face disciplinary measures.

Emphasis on peace and harmony

Concluding, Sajjanar underlined Hyderabad’s tradition of peace and communal harmony. “This city is known for its Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb. We will uphold that spirit,” he said.