In a bold and decisive move aimed at combating the escalating drug-related crimes plaguing the city, the Bengaluru Police have significantly intensified their enforcement efforts. During the month of September alone, the police registered an impressive total of 49 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. This substantial uptick in police activity led to the arrest of 67 individuals, which notably included three foreign nationals, highlighting the multifaceted and international dimensions of the drug issue affecting Bengaluru.
Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayanand has been at the forefront of this initiative, publicly announcing a comprehensive crackdown on drug peddling and possession within the city. His administration has implemented a stringent and unyielding zero-tolerance policy as part of a broader, ongoing effort to address the growing drug crisis that has become increasingly concerning to residents and officials alike. The police have been conducting daily, coordinated raids throughout various neighborhoods across the city, with a concentrated focus on dismantling drug supply chains and curtailing the distribution of illicit substances that have contributed to the city's drug problems.
Throughout the course of these extensive operations in September, law enforcement authorities managed to seize a significant and alarming quantity of drugs, showcasing the scale and severity of the issue at hand. Among the confiscated items were 170 kilograms and 689 grams of marijuana, 1 kilogram and 984 grams of opium, 13 grams of cocaine, 372 grams of MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy), 998 ecstasy tablets, and a staggering 1,089 strips of LSD. These substantial drug seizures underscore the police's unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking and related criminal activities within the city limits.
In a concerted effort to tackle not just domestic drug users, but also the involvement of foreign nationals in drug trafficking operations, the police have initiated deportation proceedings for those found to be engaged in such activities. As of now, a total of 80 foreign nationals have been deported back to their home countries in 2024 as part of this ongoing crackdown. Commissioner Dayanand has emphasized the crucial importance of not only targeting users but also addressing the underlying issues present within the drug supply chain. His remarks underscore a long-term strategy aimed at mitigating the pervasive drug crisis affecting Bengaluru and ensuring a safer environment for its residents.
"Every day, we are conducting raids across the city. We are determined to trace the root of the drug supply chain," Commissioner Dayanand stated with conviction, reiterating the commitment of the Bengaluru Police to tackle the drug menace head-on. His determination reflects the gravity of the situation and the necessity for sustained efforts to confront these challenges.
The police have also called upon the public to remain vigilant and actively report any suspicious activities they may encounter in their neighborhoods, urging community involvement in the fight against drug-related offenses. This collaborative approach is seen as essential to support law enforcement's ongoing efforts to make Bengaluru a safer place by curbing drug abuse and trafficking. By encouraging community engagement, the police hope to foster a sense of collective responsibility in addressing this pressing issue. As the situation continues to develop, the police remain steadfast in their commitment to adapting their strategies and intensifying their efforts to effectively combat the myriad challenges posed by drug-related crime in the city. With continued vigilance and community cooperation, there is hope that significant progress can be made in eradicating the drug problem and promoting a healthier environment for all Bengaluru's residents.
Â
