On Friday, authorities announced the dismantling of a large drug-peddling network in Hyderabad that had been operating through a dating app. Officials from the city's task force detained two alleged drug dealers and seven of their clients.
The two peddlers were identified as M Ramakanth, 44, also known as Kiran, and Mudavath Prasad, 30. They reportedly used code names such as 'rocket' and 'pigeon' on their dating app profiles to sell drugs to customers, many of whom were members of the LGBTQ community.
Officials stated that the accused obtained drugs like MDMA from a Nigerian supplier in Bengaluru, purchasing it for Rs 10,000 per gram and selling it in Hyderabad for Rs 15,000 per gram.
Ramakanth was employed in the private sector, while Mudavath worked as a vacuum cleaner technician. The two had previously faced similar drug-peddling charges in July of the previous year but resumed their operations after being released on bail.
Also Read: Cong demands MP Dy CM's resignation over Bhopal’s drug bust
The Hyderabad task force confiscated 100 grams of MDMA, 10 mobile phones, and a weighing machine from the peddlers. The total value of the seized items is estimated to be around Rs 15 lakh. Seven consumers were detained along with the two peddlers. The clients included a general surgeon, an IT recruiter, and a sex worker.
Officials also noted that one of the detainees tested positive for HIV, which has raised urgent public health concerns. All of the accused have been transferred to the Chilkalguda police for further investigation and arrests, according to officials.
Also Read: 5 held in drug hawala racket, Rs 46.91 lakh seized
Follow us
