Police conduct drug tests at PGs and hostels ahead of New Year celebrations

The Mangaluru City Police conducted inspections and drug tests at hostels and Paying Guest (PG) accommodations on Tuesday (December 30) and Wednesday (December 31), following reports of drug supply aimed at New Year’s Eve parties. These tests were part of a larger security sweep, which included city-wide patrolling to curb drunken driving, rash driving, and riding without helmets, ensuring peaceful celebrations on Wednesday night.

Following instructions from Police Commissioner Sudheer Kumar Reddy, city police began inspecting hostels and PG accommodations. Residents were offered the opportunity to undergo voluntary drug tests, though police mandated testing for individuals suspected of drug consumption. During the drive, officials arrested one individual for the alleged illegal possession of 50 grams of MDMA.

In addition, tests for detecting the consumption of cannabis were also conducted. Those suspected of consuming MDMA and other drugs were mandated to undergo a multi-drug test. Drug tests were conducted at Government Wenlock Hospital and several private medical colleges. With each multi-panel test typically costing around ₹3,000, the private institutions agreed to waive the fees for a portion of these tests.

Survelliance enhanced in Udupi

In a statement, Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar stated that every police station has been directed to inspect New Year celebrations at home stays, hotels, resorts, pubs and bars and act against illegal activities, including rave parties and drug parties. Social media posts were followed to identify and monitor New Year parties in the city.

At New Year events set to draw large crowds, the Udupi police deployed drone cameras. A heavy police presence has been established outside pubs within the Manipal Police Station limits. Udupi SP Hariram Shankar stated that emphasis is being placed on the security of women, children and foreigners, with personnel from the Akka Pade unit also deployed. In addition, the police have used social media to circulate messages urging the public to celebrate the New Year responsibly, Mr. Shankar said.

A total of 500 police personnel, 10 additional patrolling vehicles, three drones and 24 public address systems have been deployed in the district. District Armed Reserve and Karnataka State Reserve Police personnel have also been deployed.

Residents are advised to call 112 in case of emergencies. Alternative contact numbers for the Mangaluru Police Control Room are 0824-2220800 and 9480802321, Mr. Reddy said in a press release.