Trichy: In a significant crackdown on drug abuse, the Ariyamangalam police confiscated 1,280 tapentadol tablets, a painkiller commonly misused by youths for intoxication. The tablets, valued at approximately ₹3.8 lakh, were seized during a surprise check. Two peddlers, including a history-sheeter and a woman, were arrested, while two other accused managed to flee the scene.
Operation Details
On Monday at around 11:30 am, Sub-Inspector Mariyappan, attached to the Ariyamangalam police station, received a tip-off about a bulk movement of painkiller tablets in the Ukkadai railway track area. A police team promptly rushed to the spot and apprehended Zaheer Hussain, 22, a history-sheeter from Ukkadai, and his accomplice A Rahamath Nisha, 37, from the same locality. The duo was found in possession of 1,280 tapentadol tablets.
Suspects at Large
Two more accused, identified as history-sheeter G Padaiyappa and A Shakila Banu, managed to escape upon seeing the police team. A search operation is currently underway to apprehend them. The tablets were intended for retail sale through rowdy elements across various parts of the city.
Drug Misuse and Legal Status
Tapentadol is not banned but its sale is restricted due to its use in pain treatment. The tablets were being illegally sold at a rate of ₹100 to ₹300 per piece. Police investigations revealed that youths often mix the powdered tablet with saline solution and inject it into their bodies using a syringe for intoxication. A case has been booked under BNS Section 278 (fraudulent sale of drug), and the two arrested peddlers have been remanded.
