EAGLE Force apprehends two more GITAM students in drugs case

The Telangana EAGLE Force has apprehended two more students of GITAM University as part of an investigation into suspected ganja consumption, taking further action based on leads obtained during the questioning of another student.

The investigation began with a 22-year-old university student who was apprehended earlier. A test conducted during the inquiry was positive for ganja, following which the matter was referred to Patancheru police for further action.

A case was subsequently registered under Section 27(b) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act.

During questioning, the student reportedly told investigators that he and some friends had been purchasing ganja from Nanakramguda. Acting on the information, an EAGLE Force team visited GITAM University and met the director/campus in-charge before making enquiries with people connected to the student.

The team also made enquiries about other persons named during the investigation. Some had reportedly left the university, while others were not available on campus. Efforts are continuing to trace and verify the information relating to them.

As the investigation progressed, two additional GITAM students were apprehended for further enquiry. Both underwent urine tests, with one testing positive for ganja and the other testing negative. EAGLE Force said the test results were being considered as part of the ongoing investigation and further action would be taken in accordance with law.

The Force clarified that screening test results by themselves should not be construed as establishing guilt in relation to any other alleged offence. Investigators are continuing to verify the circumstances and information disclosed during questioning.

In a parallel preventive measure, EAGLE Force officials held a meeting with the university’s Anti-Drug Committee and provided counselling to both students. The elder brother of the student who tested positive was also counselled, while counselling for the parents of the other student will be arranged after they return, as his father is currently out of station.

EAGLE Force said the investigation was being accompanied by counselling and coordination with the university and families, with the focus on early intervention and preventing substance abuse among students.