Manipal Police Apprehend Fourth Accused in Major Narcotics Bust
In a significant development in an ongoing Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) case, the Manipal police have successfully arrested the fourth accused involved in the illicit sale of ganja and LSD. The arrest marks a crucial step in dismantling a suspected drug distribution network operating in the region.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
The accused has been identified as Mohammed Ajmal, aged 26, originally from Malappuram district in Kerala and currently residing in an apartment in Manipal. Ajmal had been evading authorities but was apprehended by police following intensive investigations.
According to official statements, Ajmal was arrested for allegedly selling ganja near the Manipal Syndicate Circle recently. During the operation, law enforcement officers seized a substantial quantity of 2,084 grams of ganja, with an estimated street value of approximately Rs 1 lakh, from his possession.
Following his arrest, Ajmal was produced before the court and has been remanded to judicial custody. This legal action underscores the seriousness of the charges against him under the NDPS Act.
Expanded Investigation and Additional Detentions
In a related development, police have also detained five individuals to whom Ajmal allegedly supplied ganja. It has been confirmed that these persons consumed the narcotic substance. Separate cases have been registered against them at the Manipal police station, and a thorough investigation is currently underway to uncover further details of their involvement.
The arrests and detentions are part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking activities in the area, aimed at curbing the spread of illegal substances and ensuring public safety.
Background of the NDPS Case
The case originated from credible information received by authorities on August 16, 2025, which indicated that ganja was being sold from a room located on the road leading to Narasinga Temple in Eshwar Nagar, Herga village. Acting promptly on this tip-off, an inspector and his team conducted a raid on the premises.
During the raid, police found two persons in possession of substances suspected to be ganja. The individuals identified themselves as Afshin and Shivanidhi Acharya. They allegedly admitted to selling ganja and LSD for personal financial gain, leading to their initial involvement in the case.
Subsequently, another accused, Manish, aged 34, son of Manian, from Kasaragod, Kerala, and residing in an Udupi apartment, was arrested on August 17, 2025. He was produced before the court, adding to the growing list of individuals implicated in this narcotics operation.
Legal Framework and Ongoing Efforts
A formal case has been registered under Sections 8(c), 20(b), and 22(b) of the NDPS Act, which pertain to the prohibition, control, and regulation of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. These sections carry stringent penalties for offenses related to the production, manufacture, possession, sale, purchase, transport, warehousing, use, consumption, and import-export of such substances.
The Manipal police continue to investigate the matter diligently, focusing on uncovering the full extent of the drug network and ensuring that all perpetrators are brought to justice. This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes and protect communities from the harmful effects of narcotics.
