In a significant move against drug trafficking, Bengaluru City Police have apprehended 16 individuals and confiscated narcotics valued at around Rs 36.67 crore through coordinated operations in the city. The arrests include four foreign nationals, eight out-of-state residents, and four locals, highlighting the network’s interstate and international connections. The seized items comprise various drugs such as MDMA, LSD, heroin, charas, cocaine, and ganja, totaling a substantial quantity.
Acting on credible tips received on different occasions, the police initiated cases and carried out synchronized raids at multiple sites across Bengaluru. The suspects were taken into custody on different dates, with the contraband seized from their possession. Initial questioning indicated that the accused obtained drugs at lower rates from foreign, interstate, and local sources for distribution within the city, particularly targeting the general public, including college students, for illicit gains.
Cases have been filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, and all 16 accused have been presented before the court on separate occasions and remanded to judicial custody. Further inquiries are in progress to uncover the broader supplier network involved in the narcotics trade. The crackdown was led by Bengaluru City Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, with the support of senior officers like Additional Commissioner of Police (Crime) Ajay Hilori and other officials.
The Karnataka government has reiterated its firm stance against drug trafficking, affirming continued stringent enforcement actions against those participating in the illegal drug market. The arrests were executed by the Central Crime Branch Anti-Narcotics Wing, in collaboration with police units from various divisions and stations in Bengaluru. The public has been urged to assist in combating drug abuse and trafficking by providing information through confidential helplines 1922 or 112.
