Karwar:  Uttara Kannada Deputy Commissioner (DC) K. Lakshmi Priya has directed officials to conduct surprise inspections at suspicious homestays and resorts to prevent the use and supply of narcotic substances in the district.

Chairing an NCORD committee meeting, she highlighted that a significant number of drug-related cases involve youth aged between 18 and 35. She instructed departments to organize awareness programs in all colleges about the harmful effects of drug abuse.

The Collector also directed drug control  to ensure that medicines are not sold without a valid prescription and to display notices in medical shops. Strict action will be taken against violators.

Police were asked to promote the “Drug-Free Karnataka” mobile application for reporting drug-related information. Officials from all departments have been instructed to submit monthly inspection reports.

According to Superintendent of Police Deepan M.N., in 2026 so far, 14 individuals have been arrested in 8 drug trafficking cases, with ganja worth Rs 1.49 lakh seized. Additionally, 112 people were arrested in 97 drug consumption cases.