Mangaluru: In a significant crackdown on drug peddling among students, the Mangaluru City Police have arrested five college students for allegedly procuring, packaging, and selling ganja to their peers and others. The arrests were made following a tip-off from a concerned parent, highlighting the growing role of community vigilance in tackling drug-related issues.
Parent tip-off leads to investigation
According to Sudheer Kumar Reddy, Commissioner of Police, the case came to light after a parent discovered a packet of ganja in their son’s pocket. Alarmed by the finding, the parent immediately informed the police, prompting authorities to initiate an inquiry into the source and distribution of the substance.
Acting swiftly on the information, police officials began tracing the supply chain. Their investigation soon revealed a network involving five students from different colleges in Mangaluru who were living together in a rented accommodation.
Students running small-scale peddling network
During the course of the inquiry, police found that the accused students were allegedly procuring ganja in bulk, repackaging it into smaller quantities, and distributing it among fellow students. The operation appeared to be organised, with the accused maintaining a list of consumers.
Authorities recovered a list indicating that around 40 student consumers from six different colleges were regularly purchasing the substance. In addition to students, about 10 members of the general public were also reportedly part of their client base.
The Commissioner noted that the existence of such a list suggests a structured distribution system rather than casual usage, raising concerns about the spread of drug networks within educational institutions.
Counselling and preventive measures
Following the arrests, police emphasised a rehabilitative approach for those involved, particularly the students identified as consumers. “All the students will be counselled, and their parents will also be counselled,” the Commissioner said.
Police officials are coordinating with educational institutions and families to ensure that students receive appropriate guidance and support. The aim is not only to address the immediate issue but also to prevent future involvement in substance abuse.
Advisory for parents and institutions
The incident has prompted the police to issue an advisory urging parents to remain vigilant about their children’s behaviour. Sudden changes such as withdrawal, unusual spending, or secrecy could indicate potential involvement in substance abuse.
The Commissioner also stressed the importance of monitoring students who stay away from home, particularly those residing in rented accommodations instead of hostels. He urged both parents and college authorities to maintain regular communication and oversight to detect any warning signs early.
Growing concern over student drug use
The case has once again brought attention to the issue of drug use among young people in urban areas. With peer influence, easy availability, and lack of supervision being contributing factors, authorities are increasingly focusing on awareness campaigns alongside enforcement.
Earlier incidents in the region have shown similar patterns of small groups operating informal networks, making it crucial for law enforcement to act promptly on even minor leads.
Conclusion
The arrest of five students in Mangaluru underscores the importance of community awareness and timely reporting in curbing drug-related activities. While strict action is being taken against those involved in peddling, authorities are also prioritising counselling and preventive measures to safeguard the future of young individuals.
The police have reiterated that public cooperation remains vital in identifying and dismantling such networks, ensuring safer environments for students and the community at large.