Drugs worth over 100 cr seized in Kupwara in 2023

Srinagar, Jan 4: Marking a significant achievement in the war against the prevalent drug menace, the Kupwara police have recovered drugs worth 100 crores in the year 2023. The drugs include 60.240 kilograms of brown sugar (approximately 60 crores), 26.500 kilograms of heroin (approximately 27 crores), 9.260 kilograms of charas (approximately 10 lakhs), 600 grams of Ganga, and cash amounting to 683,000 in 2023, officials said.
The data provided by the officials also reveals that 90 NDPS cases were registered, involving 194 individuals, out of which 173 were arrested. Challans in 65 cases were produced in court, and 56 persons were released on bail, while 117 individuals remain in custody. Additionally, 14 people were booked under the stringent Public Safety Act.
Police officers stated that some properties of chronic drug peddlers were seized, and their operations continue against those involved in the drug trade. They have identified drug dealers and assured that they will be dealt with strictly according to the law.
In 2022, 119 persons involved in drug smuggling were arrested in the Kupwara district. A total of 78 cases were registered, and over 50 kg of contraband substances, including heroin, brown sugar, and charas, were seized. “A total of 6.5 kg brown sugar, 20.5 kg heroin, 26.5 kg charas, and 450 bottles of codeine have also been seized,” a police official revealed.
The local public in the northern district has welcomed the police’s decisive action against drug peddlers, expressing hope that strict measures will continue in the future to ensure 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 a resident, “The administration’s unwavering determination to combat the drug trade in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district 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.
Officials sources highlighted an increased vigilance on activities in border districts, emphasizing that law enforcement agencies are actively taking measures against individuals directly engaged in such actions.
The official mentioned that throughout the year, seminars have been conducted, particularly at educational institutions, to disseminate awareness about the adverse effects of drug consumption. The official reiterated the appeal, urging the public to abstain from participating in such activities. Non-compliance, the official warned, will result in legal action as prescribed by law.
To curb drug trafficking in the frontier district of Kupwara in north Kashmir, the Jammu and Kashmir police have launched a massive crackdown against drug dealers. Their goal is to eradicate this menace from the district.