Hyderabad, April 17 (IANS) Stringent measures are being taken to transform Hyderabad into a drug-free city, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V. C. Sajjanar said on Friday.

The city police chief visited the De-addiction Centre located within Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad and interacted directly with rowdy-sheeters who had recently tested positive for drugs during tests conducted by the Task Force police.

He enquired about their health status and the steps they are taking to overcome their addiction. Additionally, he spoke with their family members who were present, advising them to provide emotional support and encouragement to the affected individuals.

Subsequently, he held a meeting with the doctors to review the counselling process and the nature of the treatment being administered.

In his remarks on the occasion, the Commissioner stated that surveillance is being maintained over the movements of rowdy-sheeters who pose a threat to law and order in the city. As part of this initiative, drug tests were conducted on 239 rowdy-sheeters, out of whom 188 tested positive.

He noted that while 35 individuals are currently undergoing treatment at the Gandhi De-addiction Centre, the remaining individuals are receiving counselling at other centres. He expressed hope that this special 15-day counselling and treatment programme — which commenced a week ago — would bring about a positive transformation in them.

He further said that state-of-the-art drug detection kits have been made available at all police stations across the city. He announced that field-level officials have been directed to strictly conduct drug tests on individuals found roaming suspiciously during night hours, particularly the youth.

The Commissioner lauded the establishment of 35 de-addiction centres across the state, initiated based on proposals by EAGLE Force director Sandeep Shandilya, describing it as a model for the entire nation.

He stated that these centres would provide liberation to a great number of individuals struggling with drug addiction.

The Commissioner said that while victims are being liberated from addiction, the police will simultaneously deal with drug peddlers with an iron hand. History sheets will be opened against the accused, and strict legal action will be taken against them.

He remarked that the performance of Hyderabad-Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) is exceptional in controlling drugs within the city. He appealed to the public and voluntary organisations to cooperate with the police in the collective effort to eradicate the drug menace.

–IANS

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