Special crackdown on drugs, cybercrime, betting in Hyderabad: VC Sajjanar

Hyderabad: Hyderabad Police Commissioner VC Sajjanar on Friday ordered intensified enforcement against drug trafficking, cybercrimes, road accidents, online gaming, illegal betting, street crime and food adulteration.

He also stressed the need to upgrade cyber policing capabilities through advanced technology and expert support to tackle the rapidly rising cyber offences in the city.

The directions were issued during the monthly crime review meeting for October, held at the TGICC Auditorium in Banjara Hills, where the Commissioner reviewed crime trends, investigation quality and case disposal across various divisions.

New Central Investigation Team to monitor key cases

To strengthen supervision over sensitive and important investigations, Sajjanar announced the formation of a Central Investigation Team (CIT).

He said the police must move beyond mere arrests and focus on securing convictions through strong, error-free investigations. Improving the conviction rate, he said, was crucial to instilling fear among criminals and deterring further offences.

Immediate FIR registration made mandatory

The Commissioner reiterated that every complaint received at a police station must be immediately registered as an FIR. Any delay, suppression of complaints or dilution of the seriousness of offences will invite strict disciplinary action, including suspension of responsible officers, he warned.

Review of pending and acquittal-prone cases

Expressing concern over the number of old pending cases and rising acquittals, Sajjanar directed officers to conduct a focused review and ensure the speedy disposal of long-pending cases. He instructed officials to prepare a clear ‘plan of action’ for every investigation to avoid procedural lapses that weaken prosecution.

Technology-driven policing to boost convictions

Stressing the importance of scientific investigation, the Commissioner directed officers to rely more on technical, digital and forensic evidence. He said increasing the conviction rate must be treated as a top priority, as only strict punishment can act as a real deterrent to crime in society.

Surveillance on rowdy-sheeters, PD Act for repeat offenders

Police were instructed to step up surveillance on rowdy-sheeters and habitual offenders, while Station House Officers (SHOs) were made directly accountable for crime prevention within their jurisdictions.

Sajjanar further ordered that the Preventive Detention (PD) Act be invoked against hardcore and repeat offenders involved in grave crimes.

Respectful handling of women at police stations

The commissioner stressed that women approaching police stations must be treated with dignity, courtesy and sensitivity, and warned that any deviation would be viewed seriously by the department.