SRINAGAR: In a concerted effort to curb the rising drug menace in Jammu & Kashmir, police across several districts have intensified their crackdown on drug peddlers. Multiple operations in Anantnag, Pulwama, and Awantipora have led to significant arrests and seizures of contraband substances, reaffirming the authorities’ commitment to a drug-free society.
Anantnag
In Anantnag, police made five arrests and seized substantial quantities of psychotropic substances in a series of operations.
First Operation in Mattan: A police team from Police Station (PS) Mattan, during a checkpoint at Bumzoo Mattan, intercepted an Innova vehicle (JK02DK/9333) with three individuals on board. Upon searching the vehicle, authorities recovered 11 bottles of Codeine Phosphate, 80 Dolo-T tablets, 70 OMODOL tablets, and a substantial quantity of beer and alcohol, along with ₹11,500 in cash. The three arrested have been identified as Lateef Ahmad Shah of Mattan, Ayaz Ahmad Bhat of Seer Hamdan, and Rayees Ahmad Malik of Sarnal Payeen. The contraband and the vehicle were seized.
Second Operation in Anantnag: At a checkpoint near Wazir Bagh Park, police intercepted an auto (JK01AK-7694) and seized a significant amount of illicit liquor. The auto driver, Riyaz Ahmad Dar of Zadipora, was arrested on the spot, and the vehicle was seized.
Third Operation in Marhama: Police from Sangam arrested Noor Mohammad Ganie of Marhama during a naka check at Kudangan Marhama. He was found carrying a large quantity of alcohol in his bag, which was seized immediately.
All suspects have been booked under relevant sections of law and remain in police custody. Investigations are ongoing.
Pulwama
In a separate action, Pulwama police arrested a drug peddler and seized heroin at a checkpoint on Circular Road Malikpora. Acting on reliable intelligence, police intercepted a vehicle (JK01N-4401) driven by Fayaz Ahmad Tantray of Kremshore Khansahib, who was found in possession of a polythene packet containing heroin. He had been allegedly selling the drug to local youth, contributing to rising addiction rates. The accused was arrested, and an FIR No. 187/2024 has been filed as investigations continue.
Awantipora
Continuing its drive against drug peddling, Awantipora police apprehended Ajaz Ahmad Shah of Larkipora, Awantipora, during a naka check at Larkipora. Shah was found with 21.4 kg of charas-like substance, which was seized by the authorities. He was arrested, and an FIR No. 135/2024 has been registered.
The Jammu and Kashmir police remain steadfast in their mission to eradicate drug peddling from the region, urging the community to cooperate in identifying and reporting illegal activities. They assure the public that stringent action will be taken against those involved in drug-related crimes to protect the youth from the scourge of addiction.
Community members are encouraged to come forward and help law enforcement in their fight against drugs, ensuring a safer and healthier society for all.

KR Desk