Mangaluru drug crimes have escalated significantly in 2024, with the Mangaluru city police registering a total of 1,090 drug-related crime cases this year. This marks a stark rise in both the frequency and severity of drug crimes in the city, reflecting a growing challenge for local authorities. The authorities have made significant seizures in the past year, including a wide variety of illicit substances, some of which are synthetic drugs.
Rising Drug Seizures and Arrests
Mangaluru Drug Crimes have seen a surge in synthetic drug seizures, with the total value of confiscated substances rising by an astounding 339% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Among the drugs seized this year were 191.073 kg of ganja worth ₹77.12 lakh, 100 gm of cannabis (charas) valued at ₹5 lakh, 7.305 kg of MDMA worth ₹6.59 crore, 81 gm of cocaine worth ₹6.62 lakh, and 39 gm of methamphetamine valued at ₹1.39 lakh, along with several other illicit substances. These seizures indicate a growing trend in the trade and consumption of synthetic drugs.
Commissioner of Police Anupam Agrawal noted that synthetic drug seizures alone have increased by 314%, reflecting the city’s ongoing battle with increasingly sophisticated drug peddling operations. Notably, the police arrested 45% more people this year than in 2023, with several key figures, including three Nigerians, being apprehended for their involvement in the drug supply chain.
Increase in Drug Consumption Cases
Mangaluru Drug Crimes have also manifested through a rising number of drug consumption cases. In the three-year period from 2022 to 2024, there were a total of 1,984 cases of drug consumption. Of these, 1,002 were recorded in 2024, showing a 62% increase compared to the 619 cases registered in 2023. Police data shows that the highest concentrations of these cases occurred in the Ullal, Kavoor, and Mangaluru North police station areas.
The police have pointed out that consumption hotspots, particularly those in Ullal, Kankanady Town, and Konaje, have been the focus of several crackdowns. The dramatic rise in drug consumption cases in 2024 highlights the urgent need for enhanced law enforcement and community outreach.
Arrests and Crackdowns on Drug Networks
Over the past three years, the police apprehended a total of 2,818 Indians and 11 foreigners in connection with drug-related offenses. Arrests have risen consistently, with 1,368 Indians arrested in 2024 alone, compared to 942 in 2023 and 508 in 2022. The increase in arrests underscores the intensification of anti-drug operations. Authorities have also focused on foreign nationals involved in the drug trade, with four arrests made in 2024.
The police conducted special operations, including a major raid on July 25, 2024, at the district jail in Mangaluru. During this operation, 29 mobile phones and various other contraband items were seized. A surprise drug test was conducted on 120 prisoners shortly after, revealing that 40 tested positive for drug use.
Stricter Measures and Awareness Initiatives
In an effort to combat the growing drug issue, the Mangaluru police have implemented stricter measures against repeat offenders. In addition to arresting drug peddlers, they have used the Goonda Act to take action against habitual offenders. Externment orders were enforced against 28 individuals, while 123 were bonded over, and 18 bond forfeiture cases were filed.
Alongside enforcement, the city police have also emphasized awareness campaigns. In 2024, 212 awareness programs were organized across schools, colleges, and vulnerable communities to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse and the steps they can take to stay safe.
With a heightened focus on both enforcement and prevention, Mangaluru is working to address the rise in drug-related crimes. However, the growing number of cases highlights the need for continued vigilance and community involvement in the fight against drug abuse in the city.