Why Did Drug Cases Surge by Over 30% in Telangana in 2025?
Synopsis
In Telangana, drug cases saw a staggering increase of over 30% in 2025, contrasting sharply with a slight decline in overall crime rates. This article delves into the alarming rise of drug-related offenses, the efforts of law enforcement, and the societal impact of these developments.
Key Takeaways
The rise in drug cases in Telangana is alarming, with a 30.36% increase.
Overall crime rates in the state saw a decrease of 2.33%.
Significant drug seizures were made by EAGLE, amounting to Rs 172.93 crores.
Major operations led to the arrest of foreign nationals involved in drug trafficking.
A focus on financial investigations is essential to dismantle drug syndicates.
Hyderabad, Dec 30 (NationPress) The incidence of drug-related cases in Telangana surged by 30.36% in the year 2025, despite a 2.33% decrease in the overall crime rate across the state.
A total of 2,542 cases were filed under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act in 2025, compared to 1,950 cases reported the previous year.
The newly rebranded Elite Action Group for Drug Law Enforcement (EAGLE) seized drugs valued at Rs 172.93 crores during 2025.
On Tuesday, Director General of Police B. Shivadhar Reddy unveiled the annual report for the Telangana police.
The report highlighted the arrest of 20 foreign nationals in relation to NDPS offenses, with a total of 76 foreign nationals deported throughout the year.
The EAGLE Force executed significant inter-state operations in Goa, Delhi, Maharashtra, Ranchi, and other regions. Collaborating with the NCB and Delhi Police, they dismantled Nigerian drug cartels, freezing 107 bank accounts and disrupting extensive networks.
Operation ‘Kalthi Kallu’ targeted the use of Alprazolam in adulterated toddy, leading to seizures worth Rs 42.98 Crores and the shutdown of illegal factories in both Telangana and Maharashtra.
In 2025, six illegal drug manufacturing units were dismantled, making a total of 12 clandestine factories shut down with the cooperation of both state and central agencies.
The report indicated that 26,988 kg of drugs were disposed of across 2,337 cases, with properties valued at Rs 41.47 crores forfeited under the NDPS Act. A strong focus was placed on financial investigations aimed at dismantling drug syndicates.
The police achieved 81 convictions in NDPS cases in 2025, with sentences ranging from 6 months to 20 years of imprisonment.
The Hyderabad Narcotics Enforcement Wing (H-NEW) was recognized as the world's first specialized unit in drug control at the esteemed World Police Summit-2025 held in Dubai, acknowledging its exceptional contributions to the battle against narcotics.
The EAGLE Force executed 571 awareness programs, while district police organized 1,472 programs. Additionally, 1,405 Anti-Drug Committees were established in colleges, along with 20,989 Prahari Clubs in schools. A total of 47,881 volunteers (Anti-Drug Soldiers) were enlisted.
Regarding the overall crime situation, the report states that 2,28,695 cases were recorded in 2025, a decline from 2,34,158 cases in 2024, representing a 2.33% decrease.
While serious crimes such as murders, rapes, and abductions saw a decline, there was a notable increase in drug-related offenses, counterfeiting, and criminal breach of trust.
The DGP affirmed that law and order were effectively maintained in the state, with proactive measures against violent crimes and the activities of Maoist, communal, and terrorist groups.
Cybercrime in Telangana decreased by 3%, contrasting with a 41% rise nationally. Financial losses also fell by 21% (from Rs. 1,753.11 crore to Rs. 1,378.34 crore), outperforming the national reduction of 6%.
Point of View
It is vital to highlight the concerning rise in drug-related cases in Telangana. This development raises alarms about public safety and the effectiveness of current drug policies. While the overall crime rate has dipped, the increase in drug offenses calls for an urgent reevaluation of our strategies in combatting narcotics and supporting affected communities.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the percentage increase in drug cases in Telangana during 2025?
Drug cases in Telangana increased by 30.36% during 2025.
How many drug cases were registered under the NDPS Act in 2025?
A total of 2,542 cases were registered under the NDPS Act in 2025.
What actions did EAGLE take against drug trafficking?
EAGLE conducted major inter-state operations, arrested foreign nationals, and seized drugs worth Rs 172.93 crores in 2025.
How did the overall crime rate in Telangana change in 2025?
The overall crime rate in Telangana decreased by 2.33% in 2025.
What initiatives were taken to raise awareness about drug abuse?
EAGLE Force conducted 571 awareness programs, and many Anti-Drug Committees were formed in colleges and schools.
