Kalaburagi City police have arrested Ramesh Kale, a 58-year-old alleged ganja peddler, under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act, 1988. He has been detained in Shivamogga central jail, according to city police commissioner Sharanappa SD.
Background of the Accused
Kale, a resident of Bapu Nagar on Sedam Road, is classified as an A-class rowdy-sheeter at Brahmapura police station. Police records show that 17 NDPS cases were registered against him between 2020 and 2026 for the collection, transportation, and sale of narcotics, including ganja, across various police stations in Kalaburagi city.
Previous Exile and Violations
In 2022, Kale was exiled to Bhagamandal police station limits in Kodagu district. However, during the exile period, two cases were registered against him for again engaging in the sale of ganja while appearing for court hearings.
In Case No 01/2024, Kale provided a written assurance that he would not disturb law and order for one year. Despite this, he violated the condition by becoming involved in Case No 14/2024 of Brahmapura police station, for which he was fined Rs 25,000.
Threat to Public Health
Police investigations revealed that Kale repeatedly engaged in the sale, storage, and transportation of prohibited drugs, posing a serious threat to public health and the future of youth. Based on this evidence, the Karnataka Anti-Narcotics Task Force additional director general of police issued an order under Section 3(1) of the PIT-NDPS Act for his detention.
