Bengaluru city police have dismissed claims of the presence of a so-called “zombie drug” in the city after a viral video showed a man standing still for a long time, raising concerns among residents.
In a “press release” issued on March 9, police clarified that the video, which was widely shared on social media, was misleading. “Bangalore City Police has noticed a video circulating on Instagram of a person allegedly under the influence of a ‘zombie drug’,” it said in a statement.
Based on the video footage, police from Bagalur police station found the person near Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology in Yelahance and took him for a medical examination. “The person was immediately subjected to a detailed medical examination,” the police added.
Medical tests rule out the use of narcotics
Medical reports later confirmed that no narcotics or psychotropic substances were found. According to police, “Medical reports confirmed that no known narcotics or psychotropic substances were detected. The subject was found to have arthritis and had consumed prescribed pain medication along with alcohol, resulting in his disoriented state as seen in the video.”
Further investigation revealed that the man had come to Bengaluru in search of work and had been living in the city for the past three months. Authorities said the investigation into the matter is ongoing.
The police warn against the spread of misinformation
Police also urged the public not to share unverified information online. “Bangalore City Police strongly urges the public and netizens not to spread unverified or misleading information on social media platforms as such content may create unnecessary panic and damage the reputation of individuals,” the statement said.
Officials warned of strict action: “This is to inform that strict action will be taken against those found spreading false information or rumours. The Bangalore City Police reiterates its commitment to zero tolerance towards drug abuse and appeals to the public to report such incidents to the police instead of spreading unverified content online.”
In a post on social media, the ministry added: “Think before you post. Misinformation spreads faster than the truth – and the damage lasts longer. Be responsible. Verify before you amplify something.”
Rumors gained momentum after a post claimed: “Disturbing! Deadly ‘Zombie Drug’ (xylazine substance) that turns users into motionless trance-like zombies has now entered Bengaluru…” – a claim now dismissed as false by the police.
