Mysuru: In a significant step to curb drug-related offences, city police have arrested a 32-year-old repeat offender under the PIT NDPS Act, marking the first such action in the city under this stringent law.
The accused, Irfan Pasha, a resident of Mandi Mohalla, has been detained and lodged in the prison in Ballari, according to City Police Commissioner Seema Latkar.
First use of PIT NDPS Act in city
Addressing media persons, Seema Latkar said the police department has been taking multiple measures to curb the consumption and sale of narcotics. However, this marks the first instance in Mysuru where an accused has been booked under the PIT NDPS Act.
She stated that around 30 drug peddlers have already been externed from the city as part of ongoing efforts. “Those actively involved in NDPS cases will be arrested under this Act,” she said, signalling stricter enforcement in the coming days.
Long criminal history and repeated violations
Police revealed that Irfan Pasha has been involved in narcotics-related activities since the age of 19, including the sale, storage, transportation and supply of drugs.
A total of 28 kg of ganja has been seized across nine cases registered against him. He has been convicted in three of these cases, while a history sheet had been opened to monitor his activities.
Despite legal action, the accused reportedly continued his involvement in drug peddling. Officials said he frequently secured conditional bail but violated court-imposed restrictions by re-engaging in illegal activities.
In view of repeated offences, an arrest warrant was issued on April 6 under the PIT NDPS Act, leading to his detention.
Action against other habitual offenders
The Police Commissioner also stated that action against other history-sheeters is ongoing. A history sheet has been opened against another accused, Ganesh alias Gani, who faces seven cases.
He has been arrested under the Goonda Act and remanded to judicial custody as part of the crackdown on habitual offenders.
Recovery of lost mobile phones
Highlighting another initiative, Seema Latkar said that police have recovered 220 lost mobile phones collectively valued at around ₹20 lakh.
She advised the public to report lost mobile phones through the e-Lost portal and subsequently file complaints on the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal. This process helps prevent misuse of mobile numbers and improves chances of recovery.
Conclusion
The detention of a repeat drug offender under the PIT NDPS Act marks a strong escalation in Mysuru police’s efforts to tackle narcotics-related crimes. With stricter legal provisions being invoked and continued action against habitual offenders, authorities aim to deter illegal drug activities and enhance public safety in the city.