Dating app in Hyderabad used to run drug racket, cops bust operation

The accused used code names like ‘Rocket’ and ‘Pigeon’ on their dating profiles to discreetly market drugs.

Published on: Sep 5, 2025, 10:43:32 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Hyderabad police uncovered a major drug peddling network that used a popular dating app to connect with clients. Two drug peddlers and seven people were arrested as part of the operation, along with 100 grams of MDMA, police said on Thursday.

. Two drug peddlers and seven people were arrested as part of the operation. (Representational Image/pexel)

According to officials, the peddlers identified as M Ramakanth alias Kiran (44) and Mudavath Prasad (30) used code names like ‘Rocket’ and ‘Pigeon’ on their dating profiles to discreetly market drugs.

Most of the people involved in the network belonged to the LGBTQ community since the main accused developed the habit of engaging in "same-gender sexual activities".

He started using a gay dating app to contact people. He also began consuming MDMA and other narcotic substances and used to give drugs to attract youth, police said.

"They were using encrypted messaging and dating apps to avoid detection. Their clientele was carefully selected through these platforms," the police said.

The accused sourced MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy) from a Nigerian supplier based in Bengaluru. They purchased it at ₹10,000 per gram and resold it in Hyderabad at a steep markup of ₹15,000 per gram.

Acting on credible information, a raid was conducted at a flat and the peddlers were apprehended and based on leads, seven consumers, including a doctor were taken into custody.

Both peddlers had previous drug-related charges. In July 2024, he, along with the second peddler, was arrested and sent to judicial custody. They were subsequently released on bail.

About four months ago, he again started selling drugs. He contacted a Nigerian national in Bengaluru, purchased MDMA at ₹4,000 per gram and sold it at ₹7,000– ₹8,000 per gram with the help of the second peddler, the release said.

Among the seven detained consumers were individuals from various professional backgrounds, including a general surgeon, an IT recruiter, and a sex worker. Officials added that one of the detainees tested HIV positive.

All individuals have been handed over to the Chilkalguda Police for further investigation.

(with PTI inputs)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.