Srinagar, April 28: In a significant move against the drug trade, the Srinagar Police have attached immovable property valued at approximately ₹1.5 crore. The action, taken under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, targets the alleged assets of a notorious drug peddler as part of the ongoing ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan’ initiative.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the Srinagar Police, through its Rainawari Police Station, executed the attachment order. The property comprises a single-storey residential house and land measuring 11 marlas, located in Sultan Mohalla, Saidakadal, Srinagar. This property is reportedly owned by Bilal Ahmad Patoo, son of Ali Mohammad Patoo, who is an accused in FIR No. 39/2022 registered under Sections 8/20-29 of the NDPS Act.
According to official statements, the attached property has been identified as an illegally acquired asset. Authorities contend that the wealth generated from drug trafficking activities funded the acquisition of these assets, highlighting the financial networks involved in the illicit trade. This action aims to disrupt the economic foundation of drug peddlers operating within the region.
The Srinagar Police emphasized that this measure is a demonstration of their unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking and dismantling the financial infrastructure supporting it. The operation aligns with the broader governmental objective of eradicating narcotics from Jammu and Kashmir.
The police have also reiterated their appeal to the public for continued cooperation. Citizens are encouraged to share any information related to drug peddling or trafficking activities, which they believe could aid law enforcement efforts in curbing the menace of drugs. The authorities are seeking to foster a collaborative approach to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.
The ‘Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan’ is a comprehensive campaign launched to address the pervasive issue of drug abuse and addiction across the Union Territory. It involves a multi-pronged strategy encompassing enforcement actions, rehabilitation programs, and public awareness campaigns. The attachment of assets is a key component of the enforcement aspect, aimed at making drug trafficking financially unviable.
The NDPS Act provides stringent provisions for the attachment and forfeiture of property derived from illicit drug trafficking. Such actions are intended to send a strong message to individuals involved in the drug trade and to deter others from engaging in similar criminal activities. The recent action in Srinagar underscores the proactive stance of the local police in tackling drug-related crime.
Officials stated that the investigation into the activities of Bilal Ahmad Patoo is ongoing, and further actions are anticipated based on the findings. The authorities have assured that all such efforts will continue with the same vigour to ensure a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir. The focus remains on intercepting the supply chain and seizing assets accumulated through illegal means.
The asset attachment process is a crucial step in preventing the proceeds of crime from being further utilized or laundered. By freezing these assets, the police aim to cripple the financial operations of drug traffickers and mitigate their influence within society. The value of the attached property reflects the scale of the alleged drug peddler’s illicit gains.
The Chenab Times News Desk