Hyderabad witnessed a major crackdown on Wednesday night as the Telangana State Anti Narcotics Bureau (TSNAB) and Gudimalkapur police apprehended three individuals, including a businessman-cum-film-financier, in connection with a drug-related operation.
The trio taken into custody consists of K Venkataratna Reddy (47), a prominent film financier, B Balaji (34), a businessman and former Navy officer, and D Murali (42), a railway employee. The police operation led to the confiscation of a substantial cache of drugs, as well as other incriminating evidence.
Seized from the scene were 2.8 grams of cocaine, 6 LSD blots, 25 ecstasy pills, two packets of ganja, a sum of Rs 72,000 in cash, two vehicles, and five mobile phones.
Investigations reveal that Balaji was allegedly orchestrating drug-fueled parties within the city’s social circuit. He is purportedly well-connected with numerous businessmen and film artists. Balaji’s drug procurement activities reportedly involved sourcing from multiple suppliers, including three individuals of Nigerian origin residing in Bengaluru and Vishakapatnam.
The police’s detailed inquiry uncovered a link between Balaji and Venkataratna during one of these parties. Venkataratna, known for financing films such as “Kick,” “Lovely,” “Damarukam,” and “Surya,” allegedly extended financial support to Balaji’s drug business endeavors.
TSNAB’s Superintendent of Police, D Sunitha Reddy, stated, “Venkataratna was financing the drug business of Balaji who purchased the drugs and sold it to customers and earned profits.”
The operation unfolded when Balaji was apprehended in Gudimalkapur based on provided intelligence. Subsequent actions led the police to an apartment in Madhapur where further drugs were seized. At the Madhapur location, Venkataratna and Murali were found in the company of two women, who were reportedly enticed with promises of film roles.
Notably, four individuals responsible for supplying drugs to Balaji and 18 consumers remain at large. Balaji’s past involvement in similar cases had prompted the TSNAB to keep him under surveillance.
A case has been registered at the Gudimalkapur police station, as authorities continue their efforts to dismantle the drug network and bring all culprits to justice.
