Srinagar: In a determined effort to combat the rising menace of drug trafficking and substance abuse, police across the union territory have stepped up their operations, resulting in significant seizures, arrests, and destruction of illegal narcotics cultivation. The ongoing crackdown, under the banner of the “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan,” demonstrates the authorities’ unwavering commitment to dismantling drug networks, holding peddlers accountable, and creating a safer society for youth and citizens alike.
In a notable development, police in Anantnag and Shopian carried out coordinated anti-narcotics operations that led to the arrest of five drug peddlers and the recovery of contraband substances. The operations focused on intercepting drug consignments and dismantling local networks involved in trafficking.
A police team from Police Post Sangam set up a naka at Halmulla, Sangam, based on specific intelligence about illicit activities. During routine checking, they intercepted a Honda City vehicle with registration number JK01AG-4342, traveling from Jammu towards Srinagar. On thorough inspection, authorities recovered approximately 12.7 grams of heroin-like substance from the possession of three individuals: Syed Sahil alias “Doggy” son of Syed Sharif-ud-Din from Firdous Colony Bemina, Srinagar; Farhan Majeed Wani son of Abdul Majeed Wani from Gaberpora Hall, Shopian; and Uzair Ahmad Itoo son of Riyaz Ahmad Itoo from Sehpora, Dooru.
The vehicle used in the commission of the offence was also seized as evidence of illegal trafficking. These arrests highlight the ongoing efforts to curb the entry and distribution of narcotics in the region, especially from the neighboring states.
In another operation in Sangam, police apprehended Sartaj Ahmad Allie, son of Gh. Mohiuddin Allie, near Naina Bridge, Naina Batpora. During the search, officers recovered approximately 19 grams of brown sugar—a highly addictive and hazardous substance. The suspect was taken into custody, and a case has been registered under relevant sections of the NDPS Act, with investigations underway to unearth the entire network involved in the supply chain.
In Shopian district, police at Police Station Imamsahib acted on intelligence and conducted a joint operation with the Revenue Department at Chanchward Crossing. During the raid, illegal poppy cultivation was detected and destroyed on the spot, adhering to all legal protocols. The operation resulted in the destruction of a significant amount of poppy crop, a major source of narcotics for the region.
The accused, identified as Mohd Ashraf Bhat son of Ab Ahad Bhat of Barbugh Imamsahib, has been booked under the NDPS Act. The operation underscores the persistent efforts of law enforcement to eradicate drug crops at their source and prevent their entry into illegal markets.
Similarly, in Handwara, police detected and destroyed illegal poppy cultivation in Baderkal Zachaldara village. Along with revenue officials, police destroyed the crop on-site and registered a case against Gh Hassan Wani, son of Mohd Sadiq Wani, for illegal cultivation. These joint operations aim to dismantle the entire narcotics cultivation infrastructure and prevent the proliferation of drugs in the valley.
The police’s anti-drugs campaign extends beyond seizures and arrests. In a groundbreaking move, authorities in Anantnag have initiated disciplinary action against local Nambardars and Chowkidars for failing to report illegal poppy cultivation in their jurisdictions. This is the first such effort to hold grassroots officials accountable under Section 47 of the NDPS Act, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in fighting narcotics.
During a recent review at Police Station Srigufwara, it was found that several instances of illegal poppy cultivation had gone unreported by local officials, allowing the illegal crops to flourish. As a corrective step, police have launched a preliminary inquiry to identify the responsible officials and take appropriate legal action based on the findings.
In Kulgam district, police have intensified efforts to dismantle the financial backbone of narcotics trafficking. During a joint operation with the Revenue Department, an illegal commercial structure belonging to a drug peddler involved in FIR No. 93/2025 was demolished. The structure, located in Sopat, Devsar, was illegally constructed on government land, highlighting the nexus between illegal assets and narcotics crime.
Furthermore, in a major breakthrough against supply chains, police busted a covert drug distribution network operating through indirect channels. During naka checks at Kurigam near Railway Crossing, police apprehended Sajad Ahmad Dar from Nishat, Srinagar, after he attempted to flee. A search revealed approximately 5 grams of heroin-like substance.
In a subsequent investigation, authorities traced the network further and apprehended Firdous Ahmad Bhat of Pehlipora, Waripora, Safapora, Ganderbal. A search warrant led to the recovery of approximately 20 grams of brown sugar from his residence. Investigators revealed that Bhat had been operating discreetly for over a year, avoiding direct contact with consumers and using intermediaries, especially during night hours, to evade detection.
The anti-narcotics drive is comprehensive, encompassing enforcement, destruction of illegal crops, inspection of medical stores, and public awareness campaigns. In Pulwama, police intensified vehicle checks at vulnerable points, seized and destroyed wild cannabis plants, and organized awareness rallies at educational institutions to educate youth about the perils of drug abuse.
In Sopore and Awantipora, police, along with health and drug control authorities, conducted surprise inspections of medical stores, seizing establishments operating outside prescribed norms. These measures aim to prevent diversion of medicines for illicit use.
Additionally, in a bid to raise awareness, police organized drug education programs at local schools, where students pledged to stay away from narcotics and participate in community efforts to build a drug-free society.
The Jammu & Kashmir Police have reiterated their commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and related activities. They have called upon citizens to cooperate by sharing information about drug peddling, illegal cultivation, or substance abuse. Law enforcement agencies stress that continuous community engagement, enforcement actions, and legal measures are crucial to eradicating the narcotics menace and safeguarding the future of the region.
The recent spate of operations across Anantnag, Shopian, Kulgam, and other districts marks a decisive shift in Jammu & Kashmir’s fight against narcotics. By arresting peddlers, seizing contraband, destroying illegal crops, and holding grassroots officials accountable, authorities aim to dismantle the entire drug ecosystem from its roots.
These efforts reflect a collective resolve to make Jammu & Kashmir a drug-free zone and protect its youth from the destructive effects of narcotics. As police continue to intensify their campaign, community participation and vigilance remain vital components in this ongoing battle to secure a healthier, safer society for all.