more-in In the wake of the large-scale seizure of psychotropic drugs and banned pan masala products, police and Excise squads have stepped up vigil near educational institutions, where youngsters are reportedly being wooed by drug pedlars. The squads intensified surveillance after noticing secret connections maintained by some previously arrested drug pushers. Police sources said that flash checking was under way, covering all suspected petty shops near educational institutions in the city and within the rural police station limits. A few suspected sales points frequented by migrant labourers too are under the scanner. “We have already asked residents’ associations in the city to watch over suspicious gathering of students and their association with unknown persons. Several associations have set up warning boards in areas where suspicious gatherings have been spotted,” said a police officer who is part of the special drive. He added that Student Police Cadets too had been told to be vigilant and keep an eye on suspected persons. Noticing the use of stolen motorbikes for smuggling liquor and sedative substances, the police with the support of the bike patrol squad have decided to intensify flash vehicle checking along service roads. Beat patrol squads too are planning to increase the frequency of their night rounds. They will also be in touch with residents’ forum to track suspicious gangs. Night patrol Meanwhile, office-bearers of a newly formed residents’ collective at Puthiyangadi said they were considering holding night patrol in and around mangrove forests in the region after noticing suspicious gatherings by anti-social elements. They added that a few students had been found spending time in such unguarded areas. The city police and Excise squads have sought the assistance of the Railway Protection Force and the Government Railway Police to stop the inter-State and inter-district movement of psychedelic drugs and other narcotic stuff. Accordingly, the squads will check all suspicious baggage in trains and those left ‘abandoned’. Bags left unattended on platforms will be moved to the RPF station.

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