In a significant crackdown on drug abuse, Chennai police raided multiple hostels in Potheri, detaining over 40 college students, including 32 confirmed by officials. The operation, involving around 500 police officers, was prompted by intelligence reports of widespread drug use among students at local colleges, particularly near SRM University. Authorities seized a variety of narcotics including cannabis, cannabis-infused chocolates, and related paraphernalia during the five-hour operation that began early Saturday morning. The detained students were taken to a private venue for individual questioning as police continue to investigate the extent of drug availability and consumption. The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister has vowed to address the growing drug menace, framing it as both a law enforcement and social issue. Political tensions have emerged as opposition parties criticize the ruling DMK for failing to control drug trafficking, particularly in light of recent arrests linked to drug smuggling operations.