Pune Police Commissioner Counsels 21 Drug Users to Study Consumption Patterns
In a significant move to combat drug abuse, Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar on Monday counseled 21 individuals who were found to be consuming drugs. The initiative aims to deeply understand the patterns of drug use and abuse in the city, focusing on rehabilitation and prevention strategies.
Details of the Counseling Session
The group counseled included a diverse mix of people, such as a few women, some waiters, and individuals affiliated with clubs or pubs. Commissioner Kumar emphasized that the police are probing whether these individuals consumed all the drugs they purchased from arrested members of a drug racket or sold some quantity to others. "We are investigating to determine if they used the entire supply or engaged in further distribution," the CP stated.
Background of the Drug Racket Bust
The police action stems from a drug racket bust that was uncovered after leads emerged from suspects in a minor girl's kidnapping case. On Monday, the Pune Crime Branch summoned 21 people who had purchased mephedrone from the arrested racket members. This operation highlights the interconnected nature of criminal activities in the region.
Daily Record Maintenance for Analysis
To systematically study drug usage patterns, the police will now maintain a daily record of these individuals. Details to be recorded include their age, employment or student status, locations where drugs were consumed, and the duration of drug use. This data-driven approach is designed to identify trends and develop targeted interventions.
Arrests and Seizures in the Case
The Uttamnagar police arrested four individuals on April 1: Rathya alias Sahil Gopal Rathod (28), Shubham Santosh Dahibhate (28), Rajan Gopal Nair (37), and Jatin Jaywant Kadam (26), all residents of Warje and Kondhwe Dhawade. Later, two more men were apprehended. Senior Inspector Raghvendra Kshirsagar reported that over 10 grams of mephedrone were seized from the suspects.
During the investigation, police examined UPI applications of Rathod and identified about 350 transactions where he received money from various people. Of these, 76 individuals were pinpointed, and the Crime Branch was tasked with tracing them to further unravel the network.
Insights from Questioned Individuals
Among the 21 individuals summoned, a former deputy sarpanch revealed that he consumed drugs at a party with friends under peer influence. Payments were made using his cellphone, and he claimed no prior engagement in such activities. This case underscores the role of social pressure in drug initiation.
Online Delivery Methods Used by Peddlers
The alleged drug peddlers and their accomplices utilized online delivery applications to send drugs to customers, showcasing modern methods in illicit trade. One of the women questioned was affiliated with such a service provider, indicating the involvement of legitimate platforms in facilitating drug distribution.
This comprehensive investigation by Pune Police not only aims to curb drug trafficking but also focuses on understanding user behavior to implement effective prevention measures. The counseling and record-keeping efforts mark a proactive step towards addressing the root causes of drug abuse in the community.
