A social media influencer from Rajasthan, known as Bhavika Choudhary, alias Bhawari Devi, with a significant following on Instagram, has been arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle drugs. The influencer was caught with 152 grams of MDMA (MethyleneDioxyMethAmphetamine). The arrest occurred during a police check at the Siwada outpost in the Chitalwana area of Jalore.
Choudhary was traveling on a Barmer-to-Gujarat roadways bus when she was detained. Acting on a tip-off, police searched her belongings and discovered the MDMA, a synthetic drug banned under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, concealed inside her laptop bag. Authorities suspect that she was en route to Gujarat to supply the drugs.
Initial investigations suggest that Choudhary received the drugs from a contact in the Barmer district and was tasked with delivering them in Gujarat. Police are currently interrogating her to determine the full extent of her involvement in the smuggling operation and to uncover her network. The Forensic Science Laboratory has been called in to examine the seized substance.
Superintendent of Police Gyanchandra Yadav stated that the investigation is ongoing to determine the depth of her involvement in the drug trafficking network. The police suspect the involvement of a larger drug trafficking network.
This incident highlights the concerning trend of social media influencers being involved in illegal activities. In a similar case in Kochi, another social media influencer and her associate were arrested for possession of MDMA. These cases raise questions about the use of social media platforms as a cover for criminal operations.
The Rajasthan government has recently introduced policies to engage social media influencers to promote state schemes and programs. This initiative aims to utilize the reach and influence of these individuals to enhance awareness of government initiatives. However, incidents like these underscore the need for careful vetting and monitoring of influencers, especially when entrusting them with public campaigns or endorsements.
