Police arrest 18 drug peddlers in Handwara since Jan 1

Heroin, brown sugar among 700 grams of narcotics recovered: Official
Srinagar, Feb 22: In a major crackdown on the growing drug problem, Police have arrested 18 drug peddlers since January 1 this year in Handwara area of northern district of Kupwara while as over 700 grams of narcotics have also been seized.
The seizure includes heroin brown sugar as well. As per the data available with the Rising Kashmir, the most common drug seized is charas, with a total of 681.76 grams confiscated in multiple operations. The Handwara Police Station has been at the forefront, accounting for six arrests, with 681 grams of charas, 20.93 grams of heroin, and 15.67 grams of brown sugar-like substances recovered. Police Station Handwara has also registered six FIRs in connection with these arrests.
The figures of seizure paint a disturbing picture of the widespread availability of illicit substances in the Handwara. Charas is becoming increasingly accessible, with 55 grams seized on January 2, and a staggering 140 grams recovered on January 30. Smaller amounts of heroin and brown sugar-like substances were also found in the possession of several drug peddlers, indicating the variety of drugs entering the local market.
The data also reveals that the police post-Langate have arrested 3 drug peddlers, seizing 62 grams of charas and 7.67 grams of brown sugar-like substances. Meanwhile, Villgam Police Station nabbed 2 drug peddlers, recovering 140 grams of charas, further highlighting the persistent drug trade in Villgam, Handwara.
Senior police officers have expressed deep concerns over the growth of this illicit industry, noting the increasing ease with which drugs are slipping into the hands of young people. The police have vowed to continue their vigilance, with regular Naka checks and patrolling now standard procedure in efforts to intercept the flow of narcotics before it spreads even further. Experts warn that drug abuse is not just an issue of addiction but a threat to the very fabric of the community, as it erodes both cultural identity and social stability.
In total, 18 FIRs have been registered for drug-related offenses so far in 2025, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. Police are urging citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help ensure a safer, drug-free environment for the next generation.