Article Today, Hyderabad:
Hyderabad is witnessing a shift in the way organised crime operates. Once confined to pubs, resorts, and farmhouses, illegal activities are now moving into service apartments and guest houses. Police surveillance on traditional venues has forced offenders to explore discreet locations.
Recent Incident in Kondapur
A case in Kondapur recently highlighted this pattern. Police raided a service apartment and detained six individuals during a rave party. Officers seized significant quantities of cocaine from the premises. Investigators believe similar incidents may be taking place at several other apartments across the city.
Challenge for Law Enforcement
The temporary nature of service apartment rentals makes monitoring difficult. Many are available for short stays, ranging from a few days to a few hours. This flexibility provides anonymity for those seeking to avoid scrutiny. Despite intensified efforts by the Anti-Narcotics Bureau and special teams, identifying criminal activity within thousands of such apartments remains a serious challenge.
Negligence by Owners
Regulations require owners to verify the identity of tenants and maintain proper records. However, many landlords overlook these rules for financial gain. Officials note that this negligence has enabled offenders to misuse apartments for drug use and other unlawful purposes. Authorities are now considering stricter measures, including holding property owners legally accountable if their premises are found to facilitate criminal activity.
Broader Social Concerns
Experts warn that the misuse of service apartments extends beyond drugs. Several have reportedly been used for prostitution and related illegal activities. Such developments pose a threat to community safety and create unease among nearby residents. Young people are particularly vulnerable, with many drawn into harmful addictions and criminal networks.
Need for Collective Action
Police officials stress that enforcement alone is insufficient. They call for cooperation from apartment owners and residents in reporting suspicious activity. Community vigilance, combined with stricter regulation, is seen as essential to address this emerging threat in the city.
