Fri Mar 21 14:18:11 UTC 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Launches Major Drug Raid Operation**

Vijayawada, March 21, 2025 – A massive state-wide operation targeting illegal drug sales in Andhra Pradesh resulted in numerous seizures and arrests on Friday. Dubbed “Operation Garuda,” the initiative involved over 100 teams from the Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement (ELITE), police, Drug Control Administration (DCA), and Vigilance and Enforcement (V&E) departments.

Led by top officials including DGP Harish Kumar Gupta and EAGLE head IGP Ake Ravi Krishna, the raids focused on medical shops across the state. Authorities uncovered significant quantities of illegally stored drugs and widespread violations of regulations, including the sale of narcotics without prescriptions.

IGP Ravi Krishna stated that many drug stores were found to be maintaining illegal stocks, failing to adhere to regulations, and dispensing medication without proper medical authorization. The raids covered districts including Krishna, West Godavari, East Godavari, Nellore, Kakinada, and NTR.

Cases have been filed against offenders under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940 and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985. DCA officials highlighted the illegal practice of some stores delivering medicines directly to homes without proper record-keeping. The operation underscores the Andhra Pradesh government’s commitment to combating illegal drug distribution.

Read More