A recent drug bust at Mahindra University has opened the door to a far larger narcotics network operating across Hyderabad’s premier private institutions, according to the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau (TANB). Senior officers involved in the investigation say the university case is “only the tip of a city-wide racket.”
On August 27, four individuals—including two students—were arrested for supplying drugs on campus. Earlier, a raid at Shivalayam Colony in Suraram resulted in the seizure of 1.15 kg of ganja, 47 grams of high-grade OG weed, packaging materials, a weighing scale, and several mobile phones used for trafficking.
Officials revealed that nearly 50 students are now under investigation for drug consumption, with evidence pointing to a supply chain stretching from inter-state couriers to student peddlers embedded within campus circles.
The key accused, a Nigerian national identified as “Nick,” is still absconding. According to TANB, Nick is believed to be connected to a much larger international network involving individuals from Nigeria, Somalia, and Sudan who enter India on tourist or student visas but often slip into illegal activities.
Investigators also emphasised the misuse of courier and parcel services, which they describe as the “most exploited system” for drug smuggling. Unlike passenger checks at airports, courier packages rarely undergo strict verification, enabling traffickers to conceal drugs in multiple compartments without digital tracking or OTP verification.
TANB officials confirmed that the drug issue is not confined to Mahindra University. Similar patterns have been identified in institutions such as Symbiosis and CBIT, raising alarm about widespread student involvement. Officers said many students use pocket money to buy narcotics, leading to dependency and risky behaviour.
Psychologist Neha Agarwal of InnerHeal Therapy noted that emotional vulnerability plays a major role. “Students often seek acceptance, love, or escape from fear. The temporary high seems like a solution until they’re already trapped,” she said. She added that easy cash without accountability often fuels unhealthy choices among youth.
Authorities say they are combining strict surveillance with rehabilitation. One student involved in the case is now undergoing regular blood tests and counselling. Awareness programmes are being conducted in partnership with institutions such as ICFAI to discourage substance abuse.
Mahindra University issued a statement assuring that any behaviour endangering the student community will be strictly dealt with. Vice-Chancellor Dr. Yajulu Meduri confirmed strengthened preventive measures, counselling support, and full cooperation with law enforcement.
The expanding investigation highlights a troubling reality: while Hyderabad’s private universities brand themselves as global education hubs, they are concurrently emerging as vulnerable spaces exploited by organized drug networks targeting young students.
