Aziznagar seizure puts Hyderabad celebrities under narcotics scanner
HYDERABAD: Police inquiries into recent narcotics cases indicate that several prominent personalities are adopting methods to avoid direct links with drug purchases.
Investigators said the trend surfaced after a drug peddler was detained in a supply case. Contacts and photographs of film and television actors were found on his phone. When questioned, he allegedly described them as his customers.
The accused reportedly told police that narcotics were sourced from Bengaluru and delivered through agents. Officers said there was little scope for action as there was no evidence to prove purchase or consumption by those named.
Investigators trace transactions through watchmen and domestic assistants
Sources said heightened scrutiny followed the seizure of drugs at a farmhouse owned by a former legislator in Aziznagar. Some individuals are believed to have switched off their mobile phones after the development.
Police inquiries into Nigerian nationals and local peddlers revealed phone numbers of watchmen and domestic aides working at residences and offices of prominent persons. Officials said these intermediaries were being used to prevent direct trails.
According to investigators, orders for narcotics meant for weekend parties and personal use were placed with major peddlers in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Goa. Supplies were routed through sub-peddlers and courier services. Payments were allegedly made using the phone numbers and Unified Payments Interface (UPI) accounts of staff.
In one instance, a peddler from the Old City reportedly told police that parcels were handed over to assistants rather than to actors directly.
Police prepare list of suspected buyers for notice issuance
Police are compiling a list based on names found in the phones of drug smugglers and peddlers. Notices are likely to be served on suspected buyers.
Officials have also increased surveillance on individuals previously caught using narcotics. Their movements and private gatherings are under watch as part of the ongoing inquiry.
