The Greater Chennai Police arrested 77 people and registered 38 criminal cases during a week-long special anti-narcotics operation conducted across the city between 14 June and 20 June, seizing drugs, vehicles, and cash linked to illegal trafficking networks. The drive was carried out under the direction of Chennai Police Commissioner A. Amalraj across all 12 districts of the city.

Scale of the Operation

Police teams intensified surveillance, conducted vehicle inspections, and executed targeted raids against individuals suspected of possessing, transporting, and distributing narcotic substances. The coordinated effort was aimed at disrupting supply chains and mapping the city's growing narcotics network.

According to official figures released by the police, the week's seizures included 22 kilograms of ganja, 831 grams of methamphetamine, 6 milligrams of opium, 2 milligrams of cocaine, and 1,222 narcotic tablets. Authorities described the haul as a significant success in the campaign against illegal drug trafficking in the metropolitan area.

Assets Seized

Beyond the narcotics, police confiscated assets allegedly used to facilitate trafficking operations. These included four two-wheelers, one autorickshaw, one car, and five mobile phones believed to have been used by the accused to coordinate with buyers and suppliers.

All 77 arrested individuals were subsequently handed over to their respective police stations for further investigation and legal proceedings.

Role of the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit

Officials credited the Anti-Narcotics Intelligence Unit (ANIU) with a crucial role in the operation's success. The specialised unit gathered actionable intelligence on suspected drug peddlers and distribution networks operating within Chennai, enabling teams to track and apprehend multiple accused persons. This is consistent with a broader shift in the department toward intelligence-led policing on narcotics.

Broader Campaign and What Comes Next

The drive forms part of a wider campaign by the Greater Chennai Police against narcotics and banned tobacco products, including gutka and mawa, which officials say continue to pose public health and law-and-order concerns. Authorities have announced plans to initiate proceedings to freeze the bank accounts and financial assets of those involved in trafficking, signalling an intent to dismantle the financial infrastructure of organised drug networks. Police officials also urged citizens to report any information on drug peddling to assist ongoing efforts to keep the city free from narcotics.