Udupi, Karnataka: In a first for Udupi district, two individuals linked to narcotics cases have been detained under the Goonda Act, invoked through the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The Karnataka High Court has upheld the detention orders, signalling a strong stance against drug-related offences in the coastal belt.
Accused linked to notorious gangs
The primary accused, Kabir alias Kabir Hussain, is reportedly a key member of the infamous Garuda gang. Active across Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru districts, Kabir has been on law enforcement radar for nearly two decades. Since 2005, a total of 17 cases have been registered against him, highlighting his prolonged involvement in criminal activities.
Of these 17 cases, Kabir has been convicted in two and acquitted in eight owing to hostile witnesses. Three cases were settled through compromise, while two are currently under trial and two others under investigation. He is presently lodged in Mysuru Central Jail.
Second accused from Brahmavar limits
The second accused, Krishna Achari alias Krishna Jalgaar, hails from Brahmavar police station limits and has four cases against him. Authorities reported that he has been convicted in two, while the remaining two are under trial.
High Court upholds detention orders
The Karnataka High Court’s decision to uphold the preventive detention orders has been hailed by law enforcement authorities as a deterrent to habitual offenders and repeat drug traffickers. Under the Goonda Act, individuals considered a threat to public order can be detained for up to one year without a trial, subject to judicial review.
Senior police officials in Udupi have stated that invoking the Goonda Act in narcotics cases marks a strong policy shift. “Drug peddling has been steadily rising in coastal Karnataka, and habitual offenders are often emboldened by delays in trial and low conviction rates. This step sends a clear message,” an official said.
Growing concern over narcotics in coastal belt
The coastal districts of Karnataka have witnessed a steady rise in narcotics-related cases in recent years. Law enforcement agencies attribute this to the expanding network of local gangs, interstate suppliers, and a growing youth consumer base.
Police sources also confirmed that surveillance on known offenders has been increased, and more proposals to invoke preventive detention under the Goonda Act are being examined.
Conclusion
The landmark detention of Kabir Hussain and Krishna Achari under the Goonda Act sets a precedent in Udupi district for handling repeat offenders in narcotics cases. Authorities hope the stringent measure will curb the rise of drug-related crime and reinforce public confidence in law enforcement.