Udupi [Karnataka]: The innovative use of a QR code by Udupi district police to collect information on drug peddling and consumption has received an encouraging response from the public. Launched in June, the initiative is now set to be expanded with plans to paste the QR code image at prominent locations across Udupi town, including hostels, schools, residential flats and public spaces.

Growing public participation

Speaking to The Hindu, Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar said the QR code was introduced around the same time as the Mangaluru City and Dakshina Kannada police launched a similar drive. In Udupi, the code is already being used in 167 educational institutions that have active anti-drug committees.

Since its launch, the police have received about 50 inputs, of which 15 were found genuine, leading to action against offenders.

“Though we have our own network of informants, the QR code has helped us receive information directly from the public, which has strengthened our fight against drug peddling and consumption,” SP Shankar said.

Impact and deterrence

The initiative has not only assisted in investigations but also enabled police to extend counselling support to drug addicts in need of rehabilitation. The visibility of the QR code itself has served as a deterrent to drug peddlers, according to police officials.

With its growing success, authorities now plan to display the QR code more widely to make it easily accessible to citizens who wish to report drug-related activities anonymously.

Crackdown in recent weeks

In the past 20 days, Udupi police have booked 23 cases involving 28 persons under drug peddling and consumption offences. Of these:

  • Manipal police registered 14 cases against 16 persons
  • Udupi City Police booked 3 cases against 4 persons
  • Kundapura police registered 2 cases against 2 persons
  • Hebri, Kaup, Karkala Rural and Padubidri police together booked 6 persons

The figures reflect an intensified crackdown in the district, supported by community participation through the QR code reporting system.

Conclusion

With more visibility planned, Udupi police expect the QR code initiative to become a powerful tool in curbing the spread of drugs in the district. By combining community support with police action, the district aims to send a strong message against drug peddling and consumption in coastal Karnataka.