The Prohibition and Excise Department in 2024, till November, registered 1,045 cases related to narcotics and nabbed 1,840 accused. This is a substantial increase from last year as the State registered 809 cases and apprehended 1,134 accused from January to November 2023.
The seizures also surged, with 6,153 kilograms of dry ganja confiscated in 2024 compared to 5,915 kilograms in 2023. Other significant increases include hashish oil – 15.13 kilograms, up from 11.59 kilograms, chocolates infused with ganja – 93.89 kilograms, up from 24.8 kilograms, and MDMA – 668.46 grams, up from 124 grams.
“This sharp rise in cases and seizures is a direct outcome of our focused operations and robust mechanism to dismantle the supply chain,” said VB Kamalassan Reddy, Director General, Drugs Control, and Director (Full Additional Charge), Prohibition & Excise.
In 2024, 18,730 kilograms of narcotics, valued at ₹40.40 crore, were incinerated at newly-designated Common Biomedical Waste Treatment Facilities under the Telangana Pollution Control Board. These efforts ensure compliance with environmental safety standards and legal mandates. “This year’s disposal figures signify not just our operational success but also our commitment to ensuring that narcotics do not return to circulation,” said the DG.
Targeting high-intensity zones like Dhoolpet, Nanakramguda, and Kukatpally, Operation Dhoolpet led to the registration of 64 cases and the apprehension of 295 accused between July and December 2024. Over 305 kilograms of dry ganja and other contraband were seized during this period.
“Operation Dhoolpet represents our zero-tolerance approach to narcotics. Hot spots are under 24×7 surveillance with visible enforcement deterring illegal activities,” he said.
The department has paired enforcement with community-focused initiatives, counselling first-time offenders and organising awareness campaigns with NGOs. Additionally, over 2,400 personnel were trained to strengthen operational capabilities in tackling the growing complexities of the narcotics trade.
Notable operations this year include the confiscation of 1,343 kilograms of dry ganja in Kothagudem and 54 kilograms of opium in Ranga Reddy. Convictions have also been secured in 49 cases spanning multiple years, emphasising the department’s dedication to seeing cases through to conclusion.
Published – December 10, 2024 12:21 am IST
