Major Drug Bust at Hyderabad Pub: IAS Officer's Son Among Seven Testing Positive
In a significant crackdown on narcotics, seven individuals, including the son of an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer, tested positive for drug consumption during a coordinated raid at a popular pub in Kondapur, Hyderabad. The operation occurred on the intervening night of Thursday and Friday, targeting the Quake Arena venue.
Details of the Raid and Arrests
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, teams from the Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE), along with personnel from the Cyberabad narcotics police station and Gachibowli police, conducted a discreet search operation. Police had prior information about potential drug abuse at the high-profile event, which featured international DJ Black Coffee and attracted approximately 1,400 attendees.
To avoid disrupting the event, six specialized teams were deployed to carry out checks. Authorities identified 64 attendees as potential suspects based on intelligence. Selected individuals were subjected to on-the-spot urine tests during the raid.
Test Results and Admissions
Initial screening revealed four persons tested positive for ganja (tetrahydrocannabinol) and benzodiazepines. Subsequent tests identified three more individuals who tested positive for ganja and methamphetamine. All seven admitted to drug consumption during questioning by officials.
The group comprised software professionals, a student, and a businessman. Some claimed they had consumed drugs outside the state and even abroad, citing locations such as Thailand, the United Kingdom, and Himachal Pradesh.
Police Clarifications and Further Actions
Police clarified that several others present at the pub, including a foreign DJ and a local DJ, tested negative for drug consumption. The seven individuals who tested positive were handed over to Gachibowli police for further action.
A case has been registered under Sections 8(c) read with 27(a) and 27(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, which pertain to the consumption of narcotic substances. Investigators have begun probing the supply network and are gathering details on how the substances were sourced.
Officials stated that the families or guardians of those involved would be informed, and steps would be taken to guide the individuals towards de-addiction programmes.
Celebrity Denial and Previous Allegations
Meanwhile, Telugu actress K. Hema, who was present at the event, released a video on social media denying any involvement. She stated that her drug test result was negative and dismissed speculation linking her to substance use. Hema had previously faced allegations in connection with a separate case of alleged drug abuse in Bengaluru last year.
The raid highlights ongoing efforts by Hyderabad police to combat drug abuse in the city, particularly at high-profile social events. Authorities continue to investigate the broader supply chain and network involved in this incident.
