Udupi: The Manipal police arrested a 21-year-old youth from Andhra Pradesh, identified as Seetharam Reddy Tautha Reddy, for allegedly possessing and selling ganja to students and locals in the Udupi–Manipal area. The raid was conducted on Wednesday at his rented house in Rajeev Nagar, Badagabettu, where police recovered over 1 kg of ganja hidden inside diaper packets.
Police action and recovery
Police Sub-Inspector Akshayakumari S N received credible information about narcotics being stored and sold at the house. Acting swiftly, the police conducted a search and detained Reddy. During interrogation, he confessed to purchasing ganja from Meghalaya via an online app, receiving the narcotic substances through postal delivery. He allegedly sold them at high prices to students and acquaintances in Manipal and Udupi.
During the search, police found:
- Three air zip bags containing over 1 kg of ganja concealed among diapers.
- An additional air zip bag containing two paper-wrapped packets of ganja and two empty zip covers.
- Two bongs used for smoking ganja on a table.
- The accused’s iPhone and a wallet containing Rs 3,180 in cash.
Reddy reportedly stored the ganja with the intent to sell at higher prices, targeting students and local buyers in the region.
Legal action
A case has been registered at the Manipal Police Station under Sections 8(C) and 20(b)(ii)(b) of the NDPS Act, which pertain to the possession and sale of narcotic drugs. Investigations are ongoing to identify other accomplices, including his friend Taneesh Ratna, who was reportedly involved in sourcing the drugs.
Community impact
The arrest comes as a warning against the illegal sale and distribution of narcotics in student hubs like Manipal. Authorities emphasised that vigilance and community reporting were key to preventing such activities and ensuring a safe environment for residents and students.