In an aggressive campaign against narcotics, Punjab Police achieved a major breakthrough by arresting 302 drug smugglers and suppliers in the past week. A total of 221 First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered, including 34 commercial cases, under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. The operation resulted in the confiscation of 24.08 kg of heroin, 10 kg of opium, 1.57 quintals of poppy husk, and 1.05 lakhs tablets, capsules, injections, and vials of pharmaceutical opioids. Additionally, the police recovered a substantial amount of Rs 20.72 lakh in drug money.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Headquarters Sukhchain Singh Gill, addressing a press conference in Chandigarh on Monday, highlighted the comprehensive strategy adopted by the state government. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann directed CPs/SSPs to engage with the public during village ‘Saths,’ ensuring firsthand information on crime and drug-related activities. The three-pronged strategy focuses on Enforcement, Prevention, and Rehabilitation.
IGP Gill emphasized the promotion of awareness about Section 64-A of the NDPS Act, providing an opportunity for rehabilitation to drug consumers caught with small quantities of narcotics. He dispelled misconceptions regarding long-term implications, clarifying that individuals seeking medical treatment for de-addiction under this section face no enduring legal consequences.
As part of the strategy, the Chief Minister instructed the transfer of lower-ranking police officials posted at the same seat for an extended period, aiming to disrupt potential illicit connections. District chiefs are compiling lists of such officials, and the Chief Minister has prohibited CPs/SSPs and other field officers from taking subordinate staff along on their transfers.
To target hardcore criminals, the government introduced a categorization system for Proclaimed Offenders (POs) based on the severity of punishment. Category A includes offenses with punishments exceeding 10 years, Category B covers those with punishments exceeding 7 years, and Category C pertains to offenses with punishments less than 7 years.
The crackdown on extortion calls yielded positive results, with 130 FIRs registered and 117 accused persons arrested, leading to a notable reduction in extortion activities across the state.
In a parallel drive, Punjab Police apprehended 10 more Proclaimed Offenders (POs)/Absconders in NDPS cases, bringing the total number of arrests to 1186 since the launch of the special drive on July 5, 2022. The government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating a drug-free Punjab, with sustained efforts to curb drug-related crimes and ensure public safety
