To mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Annamayya district police on Friday (June 26, 2026) organised a district-level anti-drug awareness programme here, with participation by students, teachers, officials, members of voluntary organisations and the general public.

Addressing the gathering, Superintendent of Police Dheeraj Kunubilli warned that the police would take stringent action against those involved in the consumption or sale of narcotic substances. He cautioned that individuals booked under drug-related cases could face serious long-term consequences, including the loss of government employment opportunities and hurdles in securing passports.

The SP further cautioned traders against selling nicotine-based products such as “Cool Lips” near educational institutions, and urged teachers to remain vigilant by inspecting students’ bags in case of any suspicion.

Additional SP M. Venkatadri said drug testing kits had been supplied to every police station in the district to strengthen enforcement. Suspected drug users would be tested, and those found consuming prohibited substances would face legal action.

Appealing for public participation, Mr. Venkatadri said people should report information on drug peddling through the police helpline 1972, and assured complete confidentiality for informants. Later, the police administered an anti-drug pledge to participants, and similar awareness rallies were organised across all police station limits in the district.