Drug gangs exploit college students in Coimbatore, police urged to step-up action

coimbatore: police have warned that drug gangs are infiltrating colleges by staying in students' rooms, brainwashing them, and using them to distribute drugs. authorities have called for intensified searches across colleges and private hostels in tamil nadu to dismantle these networks.a recent operation in coimbatore saw 400 police officers conduct simultaneous raids on student accommodations in the city outskirts, resulting in the arrest of drug suppliers posing as students. substances including ganja, gutka, and “cool lip” were seized, along with weapons in some locations.officials said gang members befriend students, flaunt wealth, and lure them into drug distribution, exploiting those struggling with college fees. students from various districts and even abroad are reportedly being drawn into these networks and coerced into supplying drugs in their hometowns.experts and social activists have urged colleges to maintain detailed records of hostel residents, including private accommodations, and to monitor students for unusual activity.private hostel managers are advised to verify documents such as aadhaar and ration cards, maintain cctv surveillance, and engage with parents to prevent exploitation.they also recommended that hostel wardens conduct quarterly inspections of student rooms and submit affidavits to police confirming no drugs are present on campus. authorities stressed that curbing drug trafficking requires a coordinated effort among police, college administrations, hostel managers, and parents.