Karnataka Police are investigating the alleged misuse of an ambulance for transporting narcotics after tracing a vehicle linked to a ₹5 crore drug seizure connected to an interstate trafficking network. The case emerged following the recent seizure of narcotic substances in Bagalkot, where three suspected drug peddlers were arrested. Investigators are now focusing on the role of an ambulance driver who remains absconding.

According to police, the accused has been identified as Shokiwala Jaleel, an ambulance driver associated with Baba Ambulance in Belthangady, Dakshina Kannada district. Investigators allege that he used the emergency medical vehicle to transport narcotics, exploiting its unrestricted movement to avoid routine security checks and suspicion during transit.

The investigation began after the seizure of drugs valued at approximately ₹5 crore in Bagalkot. While three individuals have already been taken into custody, police believe Jaleel played a significant role in the trafficking network. Officials claim that despite projecting himself as a social worker in the region, evidence gathered during the investigation points to his alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.

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Police said Jaleel switched off his mobile phone and fled with the ambulance after learning that he had come under investigation. Multiple police teams have since been deployed across Karnataka and neighbouring regions to trace both the accused and the vehicle. Authorities are also gathering technical and forensic evidence to establish the movement of the ambulance and identify others who may have been involved.

Investigators are examining whether the ambulance was used on multiple occasions to transport narcotics across state borders without attracting attention. The probe is also focused on uncovering the wider interstate network, identifying suppliers, receivers and any accomplices who may have facilitated the movement of the contraband using emergency service vehicles.

The case has raised concerns over the alleged misuse of emergency medical vehicles for criminal activities, prompting authorities to strengthen scrutiny while ensuring that genuine ambulance services remain unaffected. Police have said the investigation is ongoing and further arrests are likely as they continue to trace the absconding accused and dismantle the suspected drug trafficking network.

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