Thiruvananthapuram Police Crack Down on Drugs: 2,666 Arrests in One Year
Thiruvananthapuram rural police have made significant strides in their fight against narcotics. Over the past year, they arrested 2,666 individuals and registered 2,474 cases. This intensive drive targeted drug trafficking across the region.
Massive Drug Seizures and Black Spots Identified
Police identified 114 daytime drug-dealing black spots during the operation. They seized large quantities of narcotic substances. The seizures included 2,867.24 grams of MDMA, 234 kilograms of cannabis, and 105 grams of charas.
Officers also confiscated 10.2 grams of hashish oil, 31 LSD stamps weighing 0.42 grams, 167 nitrazepam pills, and two cannabis plants. These confiscations highlight the scale of the drug problem in the area.
Innovative Tactics: Drones and Databases
The police relied heavily on continuous drone surveillance at identified hotspots. They conducted targeted raids based on careful analysis of drone footage. This technology proved crucial in tracking drug activities.
Tip-offs from the public provided valuable leads. Intelligence gathered from previously arrested individuals also strengthened the drive. Police used drug detection dogs and a dedicated database to monitor repeat offenders and trafficking networks.
Changing Patterns: Women and Students as Carriers
Investigations revealed a shifting pattern in drug trafficking. Women and students are increasingly being used as carriers. During the period, police arrested seven women, including a BDS student, in connection with drug cases.
A senior police officer noted a clear change in trafficking methods. Women are now more frequently employed as carriers. In October last year, the district anti-narcotic special action force team recovered over 300 grams of MDMA from Pozhiyoor. The drugs were concealed on a woman's body.
Traffickers are also adjusting their operations. They now prefer late-night and early-morning hours to avoid police surveillance. This tactic makes detection more challenging for authorities.
Schoolchildren at Risk
An excise officer expressed concern about schoolchildren. They are among the most vulnerable targets for drug networks. Children are easier to lure and intimidate into carrying drugs.
Surveillance has increased around schools to protect students. Teachers and parents are cooperating fully with authorities. This community effort aims to safeguard young people from drug influences.
Rise of Synthetic Drugs
Many youngsters are turning to synthetic drugs like MDMA. A senior excise officer explained that these substances are difficult to identify and easy to transport. Synthetic drugs lack the distinct odor of ganja, making them harder to detect.
Just a few milligrams of MDMA can intoxicate a person. This potency makes synthetic drugs particularly dangerous. The shift towards such substances complicates enforcement efforts.
Challenges in Enforcement
Despite intensified efforts, police face an acute manpower shortage. This shortage hampers sustained operations against drug trafficking. The rural SP has requested the deployment of 1,337 additional personnel.
Authorities also need new vehicles to replace ageing ones nearing condemnation. Proper resources are essential for maintaining an effective anti-narcotics campaign. The police remain committed to curbing drug abuse in Thiruvananthapuram.
