Drug Bust

The Srinagar Police registered 94 cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, leading to the arrest of 156 individuals involved in the illegal trade of narcotics in 2024 so far. Among these, 26 notorious drug peddlers have been detained under the stringent Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (PIT-NDPS) Act. They were arrested after obtaining formal detention orders from Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir on the basis of dossiers prepared by Srinagar police against them. These individuals, as per the police, were not only habitual offenders but also key players in promoting drug use among the city’s youth. Despite facing multiple NDPS Act cases in the past, they exhibited a persistent disregard for the law, necessitating their detention in various central jails across Jammu and Kashmir. The scale of the problem is evident from the extensive recoveries made by the police. The recoveries of drugs and narcotics made by Srinagar Police include 1.17 kg of Brown Sugar, 2.92 kg of Heroin, 13.13 kg of Charas, 10.16 Kg of Ganja, 2.83 Kg Crystal meth, 44.18 kg Cannabis/Poppy Straw, 284 bottles of Psychotropic substances and 2823 tabs of banned drugs. Moreover, Rs 4,90,696 cash, 17 mobile phones, 01 drone etc have also been recovered from the drug peddlers. The financial proceeds from these illegal activities were substantial, with Rs 4.47 crores worth of properties, including vehicles and residential houses, being attached under Section 68 of the NDPS Act. Additionally, 23 bank accounts linked to these operations have been frozen. These measures not only disrupt the financial underpinnings of the drug trade but also send a strong message about the consequences of engaging in such activities. The impact of drug trafficking in Srinagar extends beyond the immediate sphere of criminality. It poses a grave threat to the city’s youth, many of whom are drawn into addiction, leading to devastating personal and familial consequences. The police’s actions, therefore, are not just about enforcing the law but also about safeguarding the future of the community. Addressing the drug menace requires a broader societal effort. Public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programs for addicts, and community policing initiatives are essential components of a holistic strategy to combat drug abuse. The crackdown on drug trafficking in Srinagar is a commendable step towards restoring social order and protecting vulnerable populations. However, sustaining this momentum will require consistent efforts, adequate resources and commitment from all stakeholders. Also, encouraging people to report drug addiction is crucial in the fight against this societal menace. Families and communities must overcome the stigma associated with addiction and view it as a treatable condition rather than a moral failing. Reporting addiction or drug-related activities can save lives and help authorities take timely action. Religious heads too can play a key role in this effort. By speaking out against drug abuse during sermons and community gatherings, they can inspire individuals to seek help and reinforce the values of a drug-free life.