Bhatkal: Three persons were taken into custody by police in separate cases for allegedly consuming ganja in public places in the taluk.

According to police sources, the incidents were reported from Heble Jamiabad and near Jagtebail Ground in Venkatapur, where the accused were found consuming the narcotic substance in open areas. Acting on suspicion, police intercepted the individuals and conducted checks.

The accused have been identified as Asif K.A. (26), Bilal Ahmed (36) and Mohammad Rasool (34).

Police said that the individuals were found to have consumed ganja during preliminary examination, which was subsequently confirmed through medical tests.

In this connection, cases have been registered at the Rural Police Station based on complaints filed by PSIs Mallikarjun Korani and Bharamappa Belagali. Further investigation is in progress.