Srinagar, Dec 31: The police in Handwara have taken stringent action against drug dealers, claiming to have seized properties worth over 7 crores and narcotics worth over one crore.
They have arrested numerous individuals in NDPS-related cases in the year 2023, a senior police official said on Sunday.
Addressing the press, SSP Handwara Dawood Ayoub stated that in the past year, “They registered 50 cases under the NDPS Act, with 48 resulting in legal actions.” The SSP highlighted the successful interception of substances valued at one crore, disrupting the illegal drug supply chain and deterring potential offenders.
As part of an effort to tackle the roots of the drug trade, Handwara Police attached three properties with a combined estimated worth of 7 crores.
This strategic approach aims to cripple the financial foundations of those involved in the illicit drug business, sending a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated, the SSP said.
It’s noteworthy that last year, Handwara police arrested 55 drug peddlers in 37 NDPS FIRs, including six chronic offenders booked under the Public Safety Act. Similarly, in 2021, 36 cases were registered, leading to the arrest of 52 individuals in drug-related cases.
The local public in the northern town has welcomed the police’s decisive action against drug peddlers. They express hope that strict measures will continue in the future, ensuring the safety and well-being of their community. The public’s support for the ongoing crackdown reflects the urgent need to address the drug crisis and protect vulnerable individuals, particularly the youth, from falling prey to addiction.
According to residents, “The administration’s unwavering determination to combat the drug trade in north Kashmir’s Handwara is commendable. By seizing substantial quantities of narcotics, booking offenders under strict laws, and working towards rehabilitation, they are sending a clear message that drug peddling will not be tolerated.”
