In a resolute effort to annihilate the scourge of drugs from the state, Punjab Police executed a pivotal operation resulting in the arrest of 302 drug smugglers and suppliers across the border state. The crackdown carried out under the ambit of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, witnessed the registration of 221 First Information Reports (FIRs), including 34 commercial cases, in the past week.
Sharing the information during the press conference, the state Inspector General of Police (IGP), Headquarters, Sukhchain Singh Gill on Monday revealed that the intensive operation yielded a substantial haul, including 24.08 kilograms of heroin, 10 kilograms of opium, 1.57 quintals of poppy husk, and an astonishing 1.05 lakh tablets, capsules, injections, and vials of pharmaceutical opioids. The police also seized drug money amounting to Rs 20.72 lakh from the arrested individuals.
Highlighting the multifaceted approach adopted by the Punjab Government to combat the drug menace, IGP Gill emphasized the three-tiered strategy of Enforcement, Prevention, and Rehabilitation.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, during a recent review meeting, instructed all Commissioners of Police (CPs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) to conduct public meetings in village councils (‘Panchayats’) to gather crucial information on drug-related activities. These measures aim to enhance crime prevention and facilitate the eradication of drug abuse.
The police force has been actively engaged in awareness campaigns against drugs, organizing 175 events, including 13 significant gatherings, to educate the public about the adverse effects of narcotics.
Furthermore, the government is promoting awareness about Section 64A of the NDPS Act, offering rehabilitation opportunities to individuals caught with small quantities of drugs. IGP Gill clarified that this provision does not entail long-term legal consequences, allowing those affected to seek voluntary medical treatment for de-addiction.
To disrupt potential criminal networks, Chief Minister Mann had issued directions regarding the transfer of lower-ranking police officials who have remained in the same position for an extended period. District chiefs have been tasked with compiling lists of such officers. Additionally, CPs/SSPs and field officers are prohibited from bringing their subordinates with them during transfers, reducing the risk of collusion.
To target hardcore criminals, the Government has introduced categorizations for Proclaimed Offenders (POs), considering the severity of their crimes. Categories A, B, and C delineate punishments exceeding 10 years, more than seven years, and less than seven years, respectively.
IGP Gill also highlighted the success in curbing extortion calls, with 130 FIRs registered and 117 individuals arrested in connection with extortion activities. This crackdown has resulted in a notable reduction in extortion-related incidents across the state.
Simultaneously, the relentless pursuit of justice against drug-related crimes continues, with 10 more Proclaimed Offenders and absconders apprehended last week. The total number of arrests under the special drive initiated on July 5, 2022, has now reached 1186. As Punjab Police intensifies its efforts, Chief Minister Mann's vision of a drug-free state is steadily progressing towards fruition.
