Mysuru Police Deploys 'Sanmitra' Constables to Tackle Drug Abuse and Criminal Activities
In a significant move to address narcotics violations and enhance law enforcement, the Mysuru district police have introduced a novel initiative by appointing one constable in each police station as a 'Sanmitra' (Good Friend). This strategic appointment aims to closely monitor the activities of ganja consumers and combat the rising drug menace in the region.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Rehabilitation Efforts
Superintendent of Police Mallikarjun Baladandi revealed that this directive follows orders from the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP). The 'Sanmitra' constables, stationed across all 23 police stations in Mysuru district, are tasked with a dual responsibility. Their primary objective is to keep a vigilant eye on individuals involved in ganja consumption and trace the sources of these banned narcotic substances. Additionally, they are mandated to engage with addicts, persuading them to abandon their harmful habits and seek rehabilitation.
Baladandi emphasized that this proactive approach has already yielded positive results in curbing the ganja epidemic. Over the past two months, the police have registered a total of 55 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) violation cases. Out of these, 44 cases specifically involve ganja consumption, while the remaining 15 pertain to peddling of ganja and synthetic drugs. The 'Sanmitra' initiative has been instrumental in identifying and apprehending offenders, thereby disrupting the local drug trade.
Crackdown on Illegal Activities and Property Recovery
Beyond narcotics, the Mysuru police have intensified efforts against other illicit activities. A notable crackdown has been launched on the unauthorized sale of lottery tickets from Kerala in border areas, with several arrests made. Authorities are maintaining strict surveillance, particularly targeting two repeat offenders who have been selling these tickets at inflated prices within Karnataka. This vigilance underscores the police's commitment to upholding law and order across various fronts.
Further bolstering their crime-fighting capabilities, the police have formed specialized teams of four constables in each station. This team-based strategy, focused on solving cases registered in 2024 and 2025, has led to the cracking of 24 cases in just two months. The efforts have resulted in the recovery of stolen property valued at an impressive Rs 29.9 lakh from the arrested individuals.
Notable Case Breakthroughs and Ongoing Investigations
In a recent media briefing, SP Mallikarjun Baladandi detailed several key achievements. The police have successfully resolved one dacoity case, two robbery cases, seven house break-ins, and eight thefts. A particularly noteworthy success was the swift resolution of a robbery reported at the Bilikere police station in February. Five accused, who assaulted staff at a petrol station and stole cash, were arrested within a month. Investigations revealed that these individuals, hailing from different districts, had conspired while serving time in jail and executed the crime shortly after being released on bail.
Regarding the high-profile Hunsur jewellery shop heist, significant progress has been made. Police have arrested four suspects so far, with seven others, including those who allegedly made off with 8 kg of gold, still at large. All eleven accused have been identified as residents of Bihar. To date, authorities have recovered 60 grams of gold from the apprehended individuals, and efforts to locate the remaining suspects and stolen goods are ongoing.
The 'Sanmitra' program and these concerted actions highlight the Mysuru police's dedication to creating a safer environment by addressing both substance abuse and general criminal activities through innovative and rigorous enforcement measures.
