The Anantnag Police have made significant strides in combating drug trafficking and illicit activities throughout 2024. Through coordinated operations, robust enforcement, and community cooperation, the police department has registered 123 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, resulting in the arrest of 185 individuals involved in drug-related offenses. In addition, 102 cases have been charge-sheeted, and 126 accused persons have been formally charged. Twenty-four individuals have been placed under preventive detention under the Prohibition of Illicit Traffic (PIT) provisions.
The police have also made substantial seizures during the year. Authorities have recovered 2.641 kilograms of Charas, 383.5 kilograms of cannabis powder (Bung), and 510.648 kilograms of poppy straw. Additionally, 1.64 kilograms of Brown Sugar, 1,350 bottles of intoxicant syrups, and 10,000 tablets of intoxicant capsules were seized, further curbing the reach of narcotic substances in the region.
In line with the crackdown, Anantnag Police have attached properties worth ₹26.40 crores in 26 cases. These include 17 houses, 9 shops, and 10 vehicles, reinforcing the department’s commitment to dismantling drug networks. Cash totaling ₹10.71 lakh has also been seized. A significant number of financial assets have been targeted, with 275 bank accounts frozen and a total of ₹1.94 crores seized.
The department’s vigilance has extended beyond narcotic substances, with 18 cases registered under the Excise Act, leading to the seizure of 3,458 liters of alcohol (approximately 7,500 bottles). Additionally, 13 medical shop licenses were permanently cancelled, while 30 others were temporarily suspended, ensuring that illicit drug trade through such establishments is curtailed.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Anantnag Police have destroyed 292 kanals of illicit crops, including 250 kanals of poppy and 42 kanals of cannabis cultivation. This strategic move is aimed at eliminating the source of narcotic substances.
In conversation with, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anantnag, Sh.G.V Sundeep Chakravarthy, reiterated the commitment of the police department to make Anantnag a drug-free district. He urged the community to actively support these efforts by providing information about individuals involved in drug trafficking. “With the cooperation of the public, we can eradicate this menace from our district,” Chakravarthy emphasized.
The Anantnag Police’s decisive actions in 2024 highlight their relentless pursuit of a drug-free society, demonstrating both prevention and enforcement strategies to safeguard the well-being of the community.