Mysuru: Mysuru city police’s anti-drug initiative Vimukthi, launched in Feb, has shown quick results, with officers cracking 22 drug-related cases within just 50 days of its introduction.The campaign was started in response to growing concern over drug consumption and narcotics-linked illegal activities in several parts of the city in Feb.Commissioner of police Seema Latkar said the early success of the drive reflects intensified efforts by the city police to identify offenders, disrupt supply networks and tackle drug abuse more effectively.Home minister G Parameshwara last week told the house, while replying to a query by MLC CN Manjegowda, that Vimukthi was an encouraging step by Mysuru City police in controlling drug-related crimes.A key feature of the initiative is a dedicated WhatsApp helpline, 8277948080, created to encourage public participation. Residents have been asked to share information about drug use, sale, transport or any suspicious activity in their neighbourhoods so that police can act swiftly on credible information. Officials said awareness of the helpline is being spread among the public, and the identity of informants will be kept confidential.Seema Latkar told TOI that messages sent to the Vimukthi number are monitored directly by the commissioner’s office and all information is promptly verified. In one instance, acting on a tip-off from a youth about possession and transportation of drugs, police arrested two individuals for possessing a small quantity of ganja.Apart from enforcement, the initiative has focused strongly on prevention and awareness. In the first two months, city police conducted outreach programmes for around 14,000 students in educational institutions, educating them about the dangers of narcotics and the need to stay away from substance abuse. Police believe this awareness drive has helped residents and students better understand the importance of reporting drug-related activity.Police have also been carrying out regular raids on lodges, paying guest accommodations and parks to curb illegal activities linked to drugs.Officials said Vimukthi will continue as an ongoing campaign, with police urging citizens to remain vigilant and share information that can help curb drug consumption and trafficking. With 22 cases, including four peddling-related cases, detected in less than two months and public participation beginning to grow, the initiative has emerged as a significant tool in Mysuru’s anti-drug efforts.
