Major Drug Bust in Bengaluru: Nine Arrested with Rs 4 Crore Narcotics, Seven Hail from Kerala
In a significant crackdown on narcotics trafficking, Bengaluru police have apprehended nine individuals, including seven from Kerala, on charges of peddling drugs valued at approximately Rs 4 crore. The operation led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of illicit substances, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes in the city.
Details of the Seized Drugs and Arrests
The confiscated narcotics include 3 kilograms of hydro-ganja, 50 grams of MDMA, 500 grams of charas, 500 LSD strips, and 10 kilograms of ganja. This diverse array of drugs underscores the scale of the illegal operation and its potential impact on public health and safety.
The accused individuals have been identified as:
- Kushal Gowda, 23, an aeronautical engineering student from Kogilu
- Shashank, 28, a law student from Rajanakunte
- Sagar, 29, a private company employee from Maralavadi
- Ashir Ali, 36, a private company employee from Akshayanagar
- Wilson S, 48, a cab driver from Doddakammanahalli
- Riyaz, a cab driver from Doddakammanahalli
- Abhinav D, 22, a techie from Devaraja Arasunagar
- Shihab KP, 30, from Electronics City
- Abul Nassir, 28, from Electronics City
This group represents a mix of students, professionals, and service industry workers, indicating the widespread nature of drug peddling networks.
Police Investigation and Network Insights
A senior police officer involved in the case revealed that the accused operated a large network with contacts in various establishments, including pubs, bars, hotels, private companies, and educational institutions. "The network of the accused is extensive; they have established connections in multiple venues across the city. We need to interrogate them thoroughly to uncover their potential buyers and the full extent of their operations," the officer stated.
Furthermore, the investigation has uncovered that most of the seized drugs were smuggled into Bengaluru from Kerala and Andhra Pradesh. This interstate smuggling route points to a coordinated effort in drug trafficking that spans regional boundaries, posing a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies.
The arrests and seizures are part of a broader initiative to curb drug abuse and trafficking in Bengaluru, with authorities emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and community cooperation to address this pressing issue.
