Jammu, April 16: In a decisive move to curb the rising menace of drug trafficking, authorities on Wednesday intensified their anti-narcotics campaign by demolishing a newly constructed double-storey house belonging to a wanted drug peddler in the Bishnah area of Samba district, in the Jammu region. The action marks a significant escalation in the government’s zero-tolerance policy against drug traffickers and those benefitting from the illegal trade.
The demolished house, located in Bijru Chack village, was owned by Lahu Gujjar, a known figure in the local drug network who is currently absconding. According to officials, Gujjar financed the construction of the lavish property using profits amassed through the sale and distribution of narcotics. Prior to the demolition, authorities had served Gujjar with a legal notice, asking him to appear before the police—a directive he chose to ignore.
A police contingent and district administration officials carried out the demolition amid heightened security, while several suspected associates of Gujjar were detained during parallel operations in surrounding areas. These individuals are currently being questioned to ascertain the extent of their involvement in the drug trade.
The crackdown follows a violent incident on April 10, when a police team conducting an anti-drug raid in Bari Brahmna was attacked by suspected peddlers. The ambush left three policemen, including a Station House Officer (SHO), seriously injured and underscored the growing threat posed by organised drug syndicates in the area.
Officials stated that the demolition serves both as punitive action and a warning to others involved in narcotics. “This is not just about arresting individuals; it’s about breaking the financial backbone of the drug mafia. Any property acquired through illegal means will be identified and dealt with accordingly,” said a senior police official on the scene.
Local residents have welcomed the move, expressing relief and appreciation for the administration’s firm stance. “Drug addiction is destroying our youth. This action was much needed and sends a clear message,” said one resident of Bijru Chack. Officials said that the authorities will launch more such operations are likely in the coming days, as the administration seeks to root out the drug menace from the region and restore a sense of safety and order. Meanwhile, in another drive against drug peddlers, a Police team led by a Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) conducted raids in Balole Khad, Gujjar Basti and adjoining areas in the Bari Brahmana area of Samba district and detained several people for questioning.
