Mangaluru: In a significant anti-drug operation, the Mangaluru City Crime Branch (CCB) police arrested three individuals allegedly involved in selling MDMA to the public, including students, in the city. Acting on specific and credible intelligence, the police team conducted a targeted raid in the Pumpwell–Ekkur area and intercepted an autorickshaw reportedly being used to distribute narcotics.
Commissioner of Police Sudheer Kumar Reddy CH confirmed that the operation was carried out after inputs suggested that drugs were being supplied in the locality through mobile transactions using the vehicle. The swift action by the CCB led to the arrest of the suspects and the seizure of contraband and related materials.
Accused identified and materials seized
The arrested individuals have been identified as Hydar alias Hydar Ali (53), a resident of Permannur in Thokkottu; Mohammed Sajad (29), residing near Chembugudde Jumma Masjid in Permannur; and Jaison Menezes (26), originally from Shirva in Udupi district and currently living in Ujjodi, Pumpwell.
During the operation, police seized 26 grams of MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, with an estimated market value of ₹2.5 lakh. In addition to the drugs, officials recovered ₹37,000 in cash, five mobile phones suspected to have been used for communication and transactions, a weighing scale, and the autorickshaw used for transport and distribution.
The total value of the seized property has been estimated at ₹4,37,500, indicating the scale and organised nature of the illegal activity.
Modus operandi under investigation
Preliminary investigations suggest that the accused were operating a local distribution network targeting urban consumers, including students. The use of an autorickshaw allowed them to move discreetly within city limits while conducting transactions at different locations.
Officials believe that the accused relied on mobile communication to coordinate deliveries and evade detection. The seized mobile phones are expected to provide critical leads into the wider network, including suppliers and potential buyers.
Criminal background of prime accused
Police revealed that the prime accused, Hydar alias Hydar Ali, has a prior criminal record. He was previously booked at the Mangaluru East Police Station for obstructing police duty and had also been involved in a drug trafficking case in 2024. Additionally, a case has been registered against him at Ullal Police Station for assaulting a woman.
Authorities stated that his past involvement in criminal activities points to a pattern of repeat offences, making him a key figure in the current investigation.
Case registered and further probe underway
A case has been registered at the Kankanady Town Police Station under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The police have initiated a detailed investigation to trace the source of the MDMA and identify other individuals connected to the network.
Commissioner Reddy emphasised that efforts are ongoing to dismantle the entire supply chain. “Our teams are working to identify and apprehend all those involved in this illegal trade. Drug trafficking, especially targeting youth and students, will be dealt with firmly,” he said.
Rising concern over drug circulation
The incident highlights growing concerns about the circulation of synthetic drugs like MDMA in urban areas. Law enforcement agencies have intensified surveillance and operations to curb the spread of narcotics, particularly in educational hubs and densely populated neighbourhoods.
Recent drug busts in Karnataka and neighbouring states indicate a broader network that spans multiple districts and possibly interstate connections. Authorities are increasingly relying on intelligence-based operations to tackle the issue.
Conclusion
The successful operation by the Mangaluru CCB underscores the importance of timely intelligence and coordinated enforcement in combating drug-related crimes. With investigations continuing, police are expected to uncover further links in the network and take additional action to prevent the spread of narcotics in the city.