Udupi: In a significant crackdown on drug activities, Udupi police uncovered a drug operation at a homestay in Thenkanidiyur village on Thursday, resulting in seven arrests and the seizure of ganja and MDMA. Acting on specific intelligence about illegal possession of narcotics for sale at the homestay, a team led by the Udupi sub-division Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and the Malpe police circle inspector conducted a coordinated raid.
Details of the Raid
During the raid, police recovered 33.8 grams of ganja valued at Rs 3,000, 9.7 grams of MDMA valued at Rs 20,000, five mobile phones, and other incriminating items. All seized materials were taken into custody as evidence.
Arrested Individuals
The arrested individuals have been identified as FM Nazil, 31, a resident of Hoode, Udupi; Mohammed Azharuddin, 42, from Manchakal village, Kaup taluk; Mohammed Afnan, 19, also from Manchakal, Kaup; Vignesh, 35, from Thenkanidiyur; Basavaraj, 36, from Katmandu, Nepal; Dhanvath Rikeeth, 36, of Shivalli village; and Githanjali Jina, 44, from Ganjam district, Odisha.
Consumption and Illegal Operation
While searching the room, police found that Nazil, Azaruddin, Afnan, and Vignesh had consumed narcotic substances. Despite prior notices issued by the Malpe station officer and the tourism department prohibiting the unauthorized operation of the homestay, the facility was being run illegally. The owner of the homestay, Dhanvath, and an employee, Basavaraj, were also arrested for facilitating the consumption of narcotic substances.
Legal Action
A case has been registered at Malpe police station under sections 8(a), 20(b)(ii)(a), and 22(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The operation was carried out by Sub-Inspector Anil Kumar D, Police Sub-Inspector Gangappa S, and station staff including head constables Adarsh, Nagesh, Uday, and Anand Ganiga, along with constables Nagaraj, Kubera, Abhishek, and Praveen R.
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