Parents’ SOS for drug-addicted son leads to drug bust in Hyderabad; EAGLE team arrests 9
The youth, who allegedly developed the habit during his law school days, had earlier undergone treatment at a rehabilitation centre
By Sistla Dakshina Murthy
Representational Image
Hyderabad: A distress call from parents struggling to control their son’s violent behaviour due to drug addiction led to a major anti-narcotics operation by the EAGLE Force.
In coordination with the Cyberabad Police, EAGLE officials arrested two peddlers and seven consumers.
Addiction picked up during college days
The youth, who allegedly developed the habit during his law school days, had earlier undergone treatment at a rehabilitation centre. Despite medication and sustained efforts by his family to keep him away from narcotics, he reportedly resumed consuming cannabis in recent days.
When his parents attempted to intervene, he became aggressive and even turned violent towards his mother. Unable to bear the situation, the parents contacted the toll-free helpline 1908 seeking immediate counselling and support.
24×7 surveillance and counselling
Acting on the complaint, the Hyderabad Narcotics Police Station (HNPS) of the EAGLE Force (Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement) conducted round-the-clock surveillance in coordination with Cyberabad Police.
Three individuals were initially identified and discreetly picked up.
Their parents were summoned and counselling sessions were held in their presence. Drug screening tests conducted transparently confirmed that all three had consumed THC.
The emotional impact on families was significant, with one parent reportedly collapsing upon learning the test results. Though legal action was possible, the parents pleaded for an opportunity to reform their children.
The youths were subsequently referred to certified de-addiction centres and the families agreed to produce them for periodic surprise drug tests to prevent relapse.
Larger network unearthed
Police identified the alleged supplier as Mohammed Sameer, a resident of Moosapet, Balanagar, who is currently absconding and being traced.
Two youths — Shaik Ahmed (23) of Srinivas Nagar, Jagadgirigutta, and Shaik Avezuddin (22) of Sriram Nagar, Gajularamaram — were found to be acting as peddlers while also consuming drugs.
The remaining seven individuals, Lokanath, Keerthi Kumar alias Bobby, Sai, Abhishek, Abhilash, Suman and Sravan, were identified as consumers. All nine apprehended persons tested positive for THC during screening, confirming recent drug use, police said.
The HNPS team carried out a sustained 60-hour operation, rounding up suspects, conducting screenings, counselling them, and involving guardians in the process.
Police said efforts are underway to trace and apprehend the absconding supplier and dismantle his network.
Focus on reducing demand
Officials stated that while strong action against drug suppliers will continue, the focus is now equally on reducing demand.
The approach combines enforcement with counselling, rehabilitation, family participation and regular monitoring.
Authorities believe that early reporting by families and institutions can prevent addiction from escalating and help reclaim young lives from substance abuse.
Appeal to public
EAGLE Force has appealed to parents, educational institutions, and the public not to remain silent if they suspect drug abuse.
Citizens can report concerns through:
Toll-Free Number: 1908
WhatsApp: 87126 71111
Email: tsnabho-hyd@tspolice.gov.in
Officials assured that all information will be kept confidential and credible informants suitably rewarded.
