In a significant development in the fight against drugs in Punjab, the state police have made substantial progress by arresting 302 drug smugglers and suppliers in the past week. This operation, carried out under the directives of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, aims to eradicate the drug menace from the state.
The arrests were made following the registration of 221 first information reports (FIRs), including 34 commercial cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act across the state. Additionally, the police have seized a substantial amount of contraband, including 24.08 kilograms of heroin, 10 kilograms of opium, 1.57 quintals of poppy husk, and 1.05 lakh tablets, capsules, injections, and vials of Pharma opioids. Furthermore, a significant amount of drug money, totalling Rs 20.72 lakh, was also recovered from the possession of the arrested individuals.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill emphasised the three-pronged strategy of enforcement, prevention, and rehabilitation adopted by the state government to combat the drug problem. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed senior officers of the Punjab Police to engage in public meetings at village 'Saths' to gather firsthand information, which will aid in crime prevention and eradicating drug abuse.
The Punjab Police have also intensified awareness activities against drugs, organising 175 events, including 13 major initiatives, to educate the public about the harmful effects of drug abuse. Notably, efforts have been made to promote awareness about section 64a of the NDPS Act, which provides an opportunity for drug consumers caught with small quantities of drugs to seek voluntary medical treatment for de-addiction without long-term implications.
To disrupt the potential nexus, the Chief Minister has directed the transfer of lower-ranking police officials stationed at the same post for an extended period. Additionally, the government has categorised proclaimed offenders (POs) into three categories based on the severity of punishment, focusing on taking strict action against extortion calls.
The relentless efforts of the Punjab Police have resulted in the arrest of 1186 proclaimed offenders and absconders in NDPS cases since the launch of a special drive on July 5, 2022. These measures underscore the government's commitment to combatting the drug menace and ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens of Punjab.