Police in the Bandipora district of North Kashmir have intensified their crackdown on drug-related activities, booking 13 individuals under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and registering 15 First Information Reports (FIRs) over the past 20 days. This action is part of an ongoing 100-day ‘Drug Free Drive’ aimed at eradicating narcotics from the region.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Bandipora, Ajaz Zargar, stated that the district police have significantly ramped up operations targeting both the supply and demand sides of the drug trade. Alongside enforcement, considerable emphasis is being placed on public awareness initiatives.
During the 20-day period, the registered 15 FIRs led to the apprehension of 13 individuals identified as alleged drug peddlers. Police reports indicate the recovery of charas, a form of cannabis resin, through multiple operations conducted across various locations within the district. In a significant move to disrupt illegal drug cultivation, authorities also destroyed poppy crops covering approximately 10 marlas of land. Those found involved in cultivation have been booked under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act.
Further efforts to dismantle the financial infrastructure supporting the narcotics trade have seen police identify and attach two immovable properties that are reportedly linked to drug peddling activities. These actions are part of legal proceedings designed to weaken the economic networks that sustain the illicit drug trade.
In its regulatory oversight, the police have also focused on the misuse of pharmaceutical substances. Inspections of chemist shops were conducted, resulting in the sealing of eight outlets found to be in violation of norms governing the sale of controlled drugs. This measure aims to prevent prescription medications from being diverted for illicit use.
To enhance deterrence, the SSP announced that photographs of identified NDPS offenders are being displayed at the Police Station Bandipora. This measure is intended to discourage young people from becoming involved in drug-related activities.
Community engagement is a cornerstone of the anti-drug campaign. Religious leaders, civil society members, and students have been actively involved in awareness campaigns designed to educate the public about the dangers of drug abuse. Zargar noted that the public response has been encouraging, assisting authorities in their pursuit of a drug-free society.
The police have also established numerous checkpoints throughout the district to conduct regular inspections, aiming to intercept the transportation of narcotics. These multi-pronged efforts by the Bandipora police underscore a comprehensive strategy to combat drug trafficking and abuse within the region.
The Chenab Times News Desk